By CELA 11 Jul, 2025

Having conversations with families about child safety

Families are understandably concerned about child safety right now. They are seeking reassurance through open, transparent conversations that reflect empathy, demonstrate best practice, and show that children always come first. 

This article shares practical ways to engage families in meaningful conversations, including examples from CELA member Forbes Preschool. From everyday chats to signage, training and community outreach, you'll find simple strategies to help your service communicate with empathy and confidence.

By Aline Majado 7 Jul, 2025

How ECEC professionals can recognise and respond to abuse

Safeguarding children in early education is about more than responding to harm — it’s about creating environments where every child feels safe, seen and supported.

This article explores the shared responsibility of child protection, the importance of recognising early signs of harm, and how educators can respond with confidence and care. We break down key indicators, reporting obligations, and the role of professional boundaries in preventing grooming. You’ll also find guidance on building a culture of safety through training, policy, and everyday practice — with practical ways CELA can support your team.

By Jannelle Gallagher 18 Jun, 2025

Children are already digitally savvy: Why early education must play its role in supporting safety

Digital experiences are now woven into the fabric of childhood, but are we listening closely enough to what children need from them?

CELA’s Jannelle Gallagher shares insights from the 2025 Digital Childhoods Summit, exploring how educators can respond with curiosity, care and courage. From digital kindness to ethical engagement, her reflections offer thoughtful prompts for early learning professionals navigating a rapidly changing world.

By Deborah Hoger 18 Jun, 2025

NAIDOC Week 2025 theme unpacked

NAIDOC Week 2025 will be celebrated between 6–13 July 2025 with a theme of "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy."

Dunghutti woman and early education consultant Deborah Hoger unpacks this year’s NAIDOC Week theme and shares practical ideas for how early childhood educators can celebrate the strength of community, nurture children’s vision, and contribute to a lasting legacy in their service.

By CELA 12 Jun, 2025

Community, commitment and the push for parity at Happy Days Kindergarten

Happy Days Kindergarten is a beloved community preschool offering families an affordable, green space for their children to play and learn. The preschool’s success in serving its community is clear, yet one challenge persists: ensuring the skilled educators receive the professional wages they deserve.

As part of CELA’s campaign for pay parity, this story shines a light on one service’s legacy, impact, and call for change.

By CELA 5 Jun, 2025

Navigating Workplace Instruments: A Clear Path for Early Childhood Services

It’s been over six months since the Worker Retention Payment (WRP) launched, giving eligible early childhood education and care providers the opportunity to deliver a game-changing 15% government-funded wage increase to their staff. 

With the 30 June deadline fast approaching to access back pay to December 2024, now is the time to act. Find out what’s required, what your options are, and how to get support every step of the way.

By CELA 27 May, 2025

Ethics focus: Dealing with conflicts of interest

Conflicts of interest can quietly undermine trust and compromise children's well-being in early education settings. It is therefore paramount that services understand potential issues and have appropriate policies in place.

We share some common scenarios and offer practical solutions to ensure ethical, child-centred decisions prevail. 

By CELA 16 May, 2025

Nappy changing and the art of embracing slow pedagogy

Have you ever considered that the simple act of changing a nappy could be a rich moment for connection and learning?

We challenge the perception of nappy changing as a mundane task and consider its potential to build relationships embedded in quality practice. 

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