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Research
A smartphone program helped reduce short-term eczema relapses in young children, what ECEC services can take from it
A large randomised controlled trial has found that a structured, smartphone-based eczema education program for caregivers reduced relapse risk over the first 12 weeks for children aged 0–6 years with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. While the benefit did not remain statistically significant beyond 12 weeks, the study adds to growing evidence that scalable digital education can strengthen early flare recognition and timely management, an insight with practical implications for early childhood education and care (ECEC) services working alongside families.
2026-01-16 07:00:04
by Fiona Alston
Research
Practice
Quality
When heat shapes learning before school: What a major cross-national study means for ECEC practice
Heat management in early childhood services is usually framed as a health and safety issue, sun protection, hydration, rest, and reducing the risk of heat illness. New research suggests it may also be a learning and development issue, with unusually high temperatures linked to lower rates of being “developmentally on track” for some foundational skills in the preschool years.
2026-01-15 08:30:08
by Fiona Alston
Research
Shaping policy through lived experience: ARACY calls for sector input on young people’s wellbeing
The Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY) has launched a sector-wide Expression of Interest (EOI) call to support the second series of its Young and Wise Roundtables, designed to elevate the voices and lived experiences of priority youth cohorts across Australia.
2026-01-14 06:58:24
by Fiona Alston
Research
Provider
Intentional science play: a three‑stage pathway to foster children’s scientific literacy in the early years
If we are truly committed to developing children’s scientific literacy, we must reconsider where science begins for the young, at the block corner, the water tray, and with the magnifying glass in hand.
2025-12-10 07:45:26
by Fiona Alston
Quality
Research
Provider
NSW Police legacy child safety handbook: A vital resource for educators and families
The 2025 edition of the NSW Police Legacy Child Safety Handbook is available, offering current guidance on safety and wellbeing for children across homes, services and communities.
2025-12-08 07:30:56
by Fiona Alston
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Policy
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Looking ahead: What the ECEC sector can expect in 2026
2026-01-12 07:15:47
by Fiona Alston
Quality
Provider
Policy
Practice
NSW regulator permanently closes Sydney childcare service after long-running safety and compliance concerns
2026-01-12 07:00:59
by Fiona Alston
Workforce
Quality
Practice
Provider
Sustaining the spark: How early childhood leaders and educators can avoid burnout
2026-01-12 08:00:31
by Fiona Alston
