Nido Early School launches Infant and Toddler Curriculum focused on intentional practice in the first 1000 days of learning

Nido Early School has launched its new Infant and Toddler Curriculum on 19 May 2026, marking a significant investment in educational practice and quality outcomes for children from birth to three years.

Developed following an extensive research and consultation process involving educators, families, children, and education and care researchers, the curriculum has been designed to strengthen intentional teaching, reflective practice and relationship-based learning in the earliest years.

Aligned to the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and influenced by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, the curriculum recognises infants and toddlers as capable, curious and active participants in their own learning.

Nido Early School Director of Education and Quality, Nadia Wilson Ali, said the curriculum reflects both the importance of the first 1000 days of learning and the critical role educators play during this stage of development.

“The earliest years are a period of extraordinary growth, learning and brain development. During this time, children are building the foundations for future learning, wellbeing, communication and relationships,” Nadia said.

“At the heart of the curriculum is the understanding that care and education are inseparable. Everyday routines, interactions and environments are viewed as meaningful opportunities for learning, connection and development.”

“The name Nido, meaning nest in Italian, reflects our inspiration from the Reggio Emilia philosophy and our belief that infant and toddler environments should feel like spaces of trust, safety and belonging.”

“Just as a nest offers protection while allowing room to grow, the curriculum supports children to develop at their own pace through responsive relationships and meaningful learning experiences.”

The curriculum places strong, responsive relationships at the centre of practice, recognising the important role familiar educators and teachers play in helping infants and toddlers feel safe, secure and confident to explore the world around them.

Importantly, the curriculum has also been designed to strengthen educator capability and professional practice across Nido’s network of early schools nationally.

The curriculum provides:

• a clear and intentional pedagogical framework for infant and toddler practice 
• support for reflective practice and professional dialogue 
• guidance to strengthen confidence, consistency and intentional teaching 
• recognition of the specialised knowledge required in infant and toddler education 

Nadia said the curriculum also acknowledges the complexity and significance of working with the youngest learners.

“Infant and toddler education requires highly skilled, responsive educators and teachers who deeply understand early development, relationships and learning. This curriculum recognises and supports the important work they do every day,” she said.

The curriculum forms part of a connected learning pathway alongside the Nido Kindergarten Curriculum, with both curricula structured around shared learning branches to support continuity, progression and holistic development throughout the early years.

“From birth through to being ready for school, children benefit from consistent, play based learning experiences that support their development over time,” Nadia said.

“When children begin building confidence, communication, social and emotional skills from an early age, they are developing strong foundations that support future learning and readiness for the Australian curriculum at school.”

The launch reflects Nido’s ongoing investment in educational leadership, curriculum development and high quality outcomes for children, families and educators across the sector.

Nido. Every day matters.