Family Day Care LATEST STORIES

Ratios versus environments: Why ECEC quality reform must treat staffing and space as one system

Strengthening Early Childhood Education: Insights and reflections

With over 40 years of experience in early childhood education, I have witnessed firsthand the joys and challenges faced by families and educators across Australia. My journey has taken me through diverse settings, from bustling metropolitan centres to quiet regional communities, and from for-profit organisations to passionate not-for-profits. For eight years, I had the privilege of teaching at TAFE, preparing future educators to make a difference.

Thirty years of heart: A life dedicated to caring for the next generation

When Annette Hutt first “fell into” her role as a family day care educator in a small rural community, she could scarcely have foreseen the remarkable journey ahead. Three decades on, she remains devoted to nurturing children in the farming hub of Wudinna, South Australia, a testament to the power of consistency, care and community connection. 

$50 million in Commonwealth claims targeted during AFP‑coordinated week of action

In a significant and coordinated enforcement effort, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and its partners have targeted more than $50 million in alleged fraudulent claims against Commonwealth programs, including the Child Care Subsidy (CCS). The operation is part of the Fraud Fusion Taskforce (FFT) and marks one of the largest national crack‑downs on government program fraud to date. 

More than just a story: How picture books support language-rich environments in the early years

Strong oral language is one of the most important foundations we can give children in the early years. It shapes how they communicate, connect, and learn. While there are many ways to support language development, one of the simplest, and most powerful, tools remains the picture book.