During times of crisis, the ability to play becomes more important than ever.  It can be incredibly therapeutic for children to explore their feelings, concerns and worries through play – and can help children to find a sense of joy and normality again. It’s also the best way for young children to learn.

Play is a central part to our Early Years Learning Framework, and is recognised by the United Nations as every child’s right. ECT and preschool Room Leader Niki Moodie reflects on why play is so important in the early years, and the role of the teacher in play. 
 

The NSW government has announced a staggered return to school in NSW starting October 25. There’s currently no guidance on when the government will recommend that all children will return to ECEC settings.

As we head towards vaccination targets and reopening dates (which some news outlets are referring to somewhat recklessly as ‘freedom day’), we need to accept that COVID is not going away. Our new ‘freedom’ will come with many new and heightened responsibilities. 

We explore the latest transmission data, and how services can keep staff and children as safe as possible as children start to return to early education and care.

Pedagogical Leader Karla Wintle reflects on the importance of empowering children to have a voice on pedagogical decisions in an early education setting, and how the consideration of shifting power led to the creation of a children’s council at her service. 

“If we genuinely want to know what children think, feel and wonder, then the balance of power needs to shift. We must believe that children will have things to tell us that we have not heard before; the ability to listen, pause and wait for a surprise or a wonderful new idea.”
Karla Wintle
 

Being more 'hands off' in our teaching can actually enable more learning for children by allowing them to realise the ‘aha’ moments as they learn through play. 

In this article we share ways to facilitate aha moments, some ideas to get you started, and things to consider as you navigate through this concept. 
 

Early years specialists Kate Meek and Annie O'Sullivan believe that during these uncertain and challenging times, we have a great opportunity to think deeply and remind ourselves of the importance of the work we do. Time to pause and ponder!

They share how reflective practice inspires continuous improvement, and three simple ways to integrate reflective practice into your day. 
 

Deputy Premier John Barilaro last week stated that the western region of NSW was on a ‘knife’s edge’ due to increasing cases of COVID. We are increasingly concerned for our members who are located in the area. Many have only just rebuilt their teams after losing them in last year's lockdown, and are being pushed financially, emotionally and physically. 

However, strong community spirit is bringing out the best in people, as they band together to protect vulnerable community members through vaccination, and focus their efforts on finding any positives they can in a challenging situation. CELA's regional early education specialist Narelle Myers and General Manager of Bourke & District Children's Services Prue Ritchie tells us what things are like for ECEC professionals and families in the area. 

Indigenous early education and care resource specialist Deborah Hoger shares how we can provide inclusive programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children with disabilities, delivered in culturally appropriate ways.