Understanding Children LATEST STORIES

Is your service ready? Key updates to Queensland kindergarten funding in 2026

Queensland’s Kindergarten Funding program continues to evolve as a key mechanism to expand access to quality early childhood education and care (ECEC). From 1 January 2026, updated funding category guidelines and funding essentials will take effect, building on the reforms introduced in 2025 and reinforcing the state’s commitment to free kindergarten for all Queensland families.

Small ways to teach babies and toddlers body safety and consent in early learning

In early childhood education and care (ECEC), the concept of consent is often misunderstood as something too advanced for babies and toddlers. Yet, foundational learning around body safety, agency and respectful relationships begins in the earliest months of life, and early learning settings are uniquely placed to nurture it.

Allied health professionals and early childhood program providers invited to join Preschool Boost directory

Professionals and providers working in allied health and early childhood development are being invited to register their interest for inclusion on the Preschool Boost menu, a centralised online directory that connects early learning services with quality, evidence-informed programs that support young children and their families.

Food safety in early learning centres: Protecting children through better practices 

In early learning centres, keeping children safe goes beyond supervision and creating nurturing learning environments. One of the most important ways children in care are protected happens in the kitchen and at mealtimes. Food safety in early childhood education and care settings is not just a regulatory requirement, it’s a vital part of safeguarding the health of some of the most vulnerable members of the community, specifically children, who are considered a vulnerable population in the context of food safety. 

Hospital Kindy expands to regional Queensland, bringing early learning to young patients