Understanding Children LATEST STORIES
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Pilot trial finds new sustainment strategy shows promise for supporting long-term active play in ECEC services
New Australian research has highlighted the potential of a structured sustainment approach to help early childhood education and care (ECEC) services continue delivering indoor–outdoor free play programs that support children’s physical activity and wellbeing.
2025-12-11 07:30:35
by Fiona Alston
Workforce
Practice
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Sector insights highlight evidence-based approaches to strengthening early childhood development
New analysis of best practice approaches in early childhood development reinforces the critical role of relationships, cultural safety and high-quality play-based learning in supporting children’s wellbeing across Australian early learning settings. Recent sector commentary has also drawn attention to the evidence guiding high-impact practice.
2025-12-11 07:15:04
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
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NQF Annual Report 2025: Quality gains continue, but sector faces compliance pressures and persistent equity gaps
The Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) has released its ninth Annual Performance Report on the National Quality Framework (NQF), confirming the sector’s steady upward trajectory in quality while highlighting rising compliance pressures, persistent equity gaps, and a renewed national focus on safety and workforce development.
2025-12-10 07:21:19
by Fiona Alston
Practice
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New positive behaviour guidance coaching program to support educators and strengthen child wellbeing
A Queensland Government initiative is providing early childhood educators and teachers with access to specialist coaching and resources to better support children’s behaviour, rights and wellbeing.
2025-12-08 07:45:21
by Fiona Alston
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Fair Work Commission confirms forced resignation grounds in case involving early learning provider
2025-12-08 07:30:23
by Fiona Alston
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How one teacher is using Little J & Big Cuz to build empathy, understanding and confidence in First Nations learning
2025-12-08 07:15:19
by Fiona Alston
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Funding agreement reached on preschools
2025-12-09 08:46:06
by Fiona Alston
