Amplify! Blog

There’s a good chance you’ve never heard of CMV or cytomegalovirus. But by the age of 40, up to 85% of Australian adults have been infected with this virus. CMV is common in early childhood and, while generally a mild virus, can have more serious implications for pregnant people contracting the disease.

We discuss cytomegalovirus (CMV) and why ECEC providers should be proactive about addressing and preventing its spread. 

This simple guide gives an overview of what the major parties are promising, with an ECEC focus. 

The Minister for Education and Early Learning, Sarah Mitchell, met with a representative group of CELA members at our Sydney CBD office last Tuesday night. It was a unique opportunity for members to better understand how early education policy is being implemented before the state election. Both parties were invited to attend, and Minister Mitchell accepted our invitation.  

Read on for a summary of what was discussed. 

"When emotional regulation difficulties are present, everyday demands can create changeable stress and anxiety levels in children and influence how they behave and respond to their environment."

Emotional regulation skills are now considered crucial to the foundations of a child's healthy dispositions and lifelong learning skills. Paediatric occupational therapist Claire Joyce shares seven of the best ways to support children who are struggling with emotional regulation.

Inclusion is not a choice in early education; equity, inclusion and high expectations are key principles of the Early Years Learning Framework. 

Last week we hosted our Elevate one-day conference with a theme of belonging and inclusion. In this article, you'll find 12 key inclusion tips and insights from our eight amazing speakers, along with links to more resources to guide you along your inclusion journey. 

Are you new to the early education sector and finding it challenging to get to grips with the planning process? Perhaps you have a new team member who could do with some tips and guidance. In this article, Early Childhood Teacher Meg Anastasi shares helpful tips and insights for getting started with planning in early childhood education. 

When ECT Darren Halim was researching local Aboriginal heritage and cultural sites to share with the children at his kindergarten, his colleague came across some beautiful Aboriginal art on display at a nearby cafe. The artist turned out to be local Wiradjuri man and Anglican church Reverend Glenn Loughrey, who was also involved in the development of The Wominjeka (Reconciliation) Garden, a local cutural site. 

Darren shares how he built a connection with Glenn and the wonderful cultural learnings that took place over the year that followed.

Many children are fascinated by the visible differences in other children’s skin colour and may ask sensitive or confronting questions. How can we best respond? 

Meni Tsambouniaris from Diversity Kids offers advice and tips on approaching this topic.  

Did you know that there are two types of discrimination to be aware of in relation to the Disability Discrimination Act, and ECEC services are legally required to avoid both types?  

Sadly, the Child Care Package Evaluation completed by the Australian Institute of Family Studies last year found that discriminatory practices were occurring for children with additional needs. In this Amplify article, CELA early education expert Jannelle Gallagher clarifies services’ legal obligations around disability discrimination and inclusion, and shares best practice examples for inclusion. A timely article considering the increased focus on inclusion in the updated EYLF. 

What started as a day to teach the children at Milford Lodge about the three Rs has turned into a thriving community event. Since the first Milford Lodge Market Day in 2009, the Sunshine Coast service has raised more than $30,000 for community causes. We explore how the team at Excellent rated Milford Lodge connects with their community through their annual Market Day.