In recent years, the educational landscape has witnessed a significant shift towards play-based learning curricula, particularly in early childhood education. This approach recognises the inherent value of play as a fundamental aspect of how children learn and develop. In this blog, we will explore play-based learning, its key principles, and its numerous benefits to young learners.

What is Play-Based Learning?

Play-based learning is an educational philosophy that emphasises the importance of play as a primary mode of learning for children. Unlike traditional, teacher-directed instruction, play-based learning encourages children to engage in hands-on, experiential activities that stimulate curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. This curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing children to explore their interests and learn at their own pace.

Key Principles of Play-Based Learning

  1. Child-Centred Approach: At the heart of play-based learning is the belief that children are active participants in their own learning. Educators serve as facilitators, providing guidance and support while allowing children to take the lead in their exploration.
  2. Integration of Learning Areas: Play-based curriculum often integrates various learning domains, such as social-emotional, cognitive, physical, and language development. Through play, children can engage in activities that promote multiple skills simultaneously.
  3. Real-Life Experiences: Play-based learning often involves real-life scenarios and experiences, allowing children to make connections between their play and the world around them. This relevance enhances their understanding and retention of information.
  4. Collaboration and Social Interaction: Play encourages collaboration and social interaction among children. Through group activities, children learn to communicate, negotiate, and work together, fostering essential social skills.
  5. Encouragement of Creativity: Play-based learning nurtures creativity by providing children with the opportunities to express themselves through imaginative play, art, music, and storytelling. This creative exploration is vital for cognitive and emotional development.

Benefits of Play-Based Learning

  1. Enhanced Cognitive Development: Play-based activities stimulate critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Children learn to ask questions, experiment, and find solutions, which are essential cognitive skills for lifelong learning.
  2. Improved Social Skills: By engaging in cooperative play, children develop social skills such as sharing, empathy, and conflict resolution. These interactions help them build friendships and navigate social dynamics effectively.
  3. Emotional Growth: Play allows children to express their emotions and experiences in a safe environment. Through role-playing and imaginative scenarios, they can explore feelings, learn self-regulation, and develop emotional resilience.
  4. Physical Development: Many play-based learning activities involve physical movement, which supports the development of gross and fine motor skills. Activities such as climbing, jumping, and manipulating objects enhance coordination and overall physical health.
  5. Increased Motivation and Engagement: Play-based learning fosters intrinsic motivation. Children are more likely to engage deeply with activities that they find enjoyable and interesting, leading to a positive attitude towards learning.
  6. Preparation for Future Learning: The skills acquired through play-based learning set a solid foundation for future academic success. Children develop a love for learning, curiosity, and the ability to think critically, which are essential for their educational journey.

How do we Implement Play-Based Learning in Early Childhood Education?

To effectively implement a play-based learning curriculum, Educators can:

Play-based learning is more than just fun; it is a powerful educational approach that supports holistic development in children. By embracing play as a fundamental part of the learning process, educators can create enriching experiences that foster cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth. As we continue to recognize the significance of play in education, we pave the way for a generation of curious, confident, and capable learners ready to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Stay up to date with our Grow Early Education centres on Facebook to see what amazing play-based activities Educators incorporate into their daily curricula.

Embarking on the journey of childcare can be both exciting and daunting for parents. As you prepare to transition your child into a childcare setting, it’s important to understand what to expect, how to choose the right service, and the myriad benefits that childcare offers for your child's development. This guide aims to simplify the process and provide essential insights.

What to Expect When Starting Childcare:

  1. Adjustment Period: The initial days of childcare can be an adjustment for both children and parents. It’s normal for children to experience separation anxiety or hesitation when entering a new environment. Expect some emotional responses, which may include tears or clinginess. With time, most children adapt well to their new routine. Bringing along a comfort item or family photo can assist with the transition. Informing the Educators about your child’s specific interests will help with this transition; this way, they can spark their interest and take this opportunity as a distraction technique.
  2. Daily Routine: Childcare centres typically have a structured daily schedule that includes activities such as playtime, meals, nap time, and educational sessions. Familiarising your child with this routine can help them feel more secure as they transition. For younger babies and infants, look for centres that cater to your child’s individual routine to minimise disruption between care environments.
  3. Communication with Caregivers: Regular communication with caregivers is essential. Most childcare centres provide daily reports or updates on your child’s activities, progress, and any concerns. This partnership between parents and caregivers helps ensure that your child's needs are met.
  4. Health and Safety Protocols: Quality childcare facilities prioritise health and safety. Expect thorough policies regarding hygiene, nutrition, and emergencies. Staff should be trained in first aid and child development, providing peace of mind for parents.

How to Choose the Right Childcare Service:

  1. Research Options: Start by researching different types of childcare services available in your area, such as daycare centres, family childcare homes, or preschools/kindergartens. Each option has its own advantages, so consider your child’s personality and your family’s needs.
  2. Visit Facilities: Schedule visits to potential childcare centres. Observe the environment, cleanliness, and safety measures. Pay attention to how Educators interact with the children, as this can reflect the level of care and attention your child will receive.
  3. Ask Questions: Prepare a list of questions to ask during your visits. Enquire about staff qualifications, child-to-caregiver ratios, daily routines, and how they handle discipline and conflict resolution. Understanding their approach to learning and development is crucial.
  4. Check References and Reviews: Seek recommendations from other parents and read online reviews. Feedback from other families can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the experiences of children in that environment.
  5. Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, trust your instincts when it comes to choosing a childcare service. If a place feels right for you and your child, it’s likely to be a good fit.

Benefits of Childcare for Children:

  1. Social Skills Development: One of the primary benefits of childcare is the opportunity for children to socialise with peers. They learn vital social skills, including sharing, cooperation, and conflict resolution, which are essential for building relationships.
  2. Emotional Growth: Childcare fosters emotional development by allowing children to express their feelings in a supportive environment. Caregivers help children understand and manage their emotions, promoting resilience and emotional intelligence.
  3. Cognitive Advancement: Engaging activities and structured learning experiences in childcare settings stimulate cognitive development. Children are introduced to concepts such as numbers, letters, and problem-solving through play, setting a strong foundation for future learning.
  4. Physical Development: Many childcare programs emphasise physical activity, helping children develop their motor skills. Outdoor play and structured physical activities encourage healthy habits and promote overall well-being.
  5. Preparation for School: Childcare serves as a crucial stepping stone to formal education. Children become accustomed to routines and expectations, helping them transition smoothly into primary school and beyond. Many states across Australia now have state-based Kindergarten/Preschool funding, so be sure to ask about this during your tour!
  6. Diverse Experiences: Quality childcare exposes children to diverse cultures, languages, and perspectives. This exposure fosters inclusivity and helps children appreciate differences, preparing them for a multicultural world.

Starting childcare can be a significant step for both parents and children. By understanding what to expect, carefully choosing the right service, and recognising the benefits of childcare, you can ensure a positive experience for your child. This journey not only supports their development but also enriches their lives with valuable skills and connections that will serve them well in the future. Embracing this transition with an open mind and heart can lead to a rewarding experience for your entire family.

At Grow Early Education, we embrace Australia’s rich multicultural heritage and believe in fostering a sense of belonging, respect, and inclusivity within our long daycare centres. Harmony Week, celebrated from March 17th to 23rd, is a wonderful opportunity to teach children about acceptance, respect, and unity while celebrating the diverse backgrounds that make up our communities.

This nationwide celebration highlights the importance of inclusiveness and cultural respect for all Australians, regardless of their background. The signature orange colour of Harmony Week represents meaningful conversations, communication, and mutual understanding—values we strive to instil in the children every day.

Throughout Harmony Week, our Grow Early Education centres across Australia will engage in various fun and educational activities that celebrate diversity and inclusion. Here’s how we have been getting involved so far:

At Grow Early Education, we understand that early childhood is a critical time to instil values of respect, understanding, and inclusivity. By celebrating Harmony Week, we provide children with meaningful experiences that help them appreciate and embrace the differences that make each person unique. These celebrations encourage lifelong respect for diversity, fostering a future generation that values unity and kindness.

Let’s celebrate Harmony Week together and continue to nurture a world where everyone belongs!

Stay up to date with your nearest Grow Early Education centres Harmony Week celebrations on Facebook.

As Cyclone Alfred approaches the SE QLD and NE NSW coasts, staying indoors is the safest option for families. At Grow Early Education, we understand that keeping little ones entertained while at home can be a challenge, so we’ve put together a list of fun and educational activities for children aged 0-6 to enjoy while staying safe indoors.

Activities for Babies (0-12 Months)

  1. Sensory Play – Fill a ziplock bag with hair gel and small objects (such as beads or sequins) and tape it to the floor for a safe and engaging sensory experience.
  2. Peekaboo Fun – Use scarves or blankets to play peekaboo and encourage laughter and connection.
  3. Tummy Time Adventures – Place toys or mirrors in front of your baby during tummy time to strengthen their muscles and stimulate curiosity.
  4. Soft Music & Movement – Play gentle music and sway with your baby or let them explore sounds with simple musical toys.

Activities for Toddlers (1-3 Years)

  1. Indoor Obstacle Course – Use pillows, blankets, and furniture to create a safe, fun obstacle course to crawl through.
  2. Water Play – Fill a sink or a shallow container with water and provide cups and spoons for pouring fun. Always supervise closely.
  3. DIY Sensory Bins – Fill a tub with rice, pasta, or shredded paper and hide small toys inside for your Toddler to discover.
  4. Storytime & Puppet Shows – Read books together or create simple sock puppets to act out their favourite stories.

Activities for Preschoolers (3-6 Years)

  1. Baking Together – Make simple recipes such as cookies, muffins, or banana bread, letting children help by mixing and pouring ingredients. You could even try your hand at making your own play dough!
  2. Art & Craft Corner – Use paper, crayons, stickers, and recycled materials to create unique art projects.
  3. Treasure Hunts – Hide small toys around the house and give clues to help children find them.
  4. Yoga & Movement Games – Try simple Children's yoga poses or play “Freeze Dance” to get some energy out while indoors.

Bonus Family Activities

While the weather may be wild outside, your home can be filled with warmth, laughter, and learning. Stay safe and have fun with your little ones during this time!

Stay safe and happy playing!

Please note, the following centres are currently closed today due to Cyclone Alfred:

The Australian Government is making significant changes to the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) to provide more support for families and move towards a universal early education and care system. Announced on 11 December 2024, these changes will take effect from 5 January 2026, ensuring that more families receive subsidised childcare hours.

Key Changes to the CCS in 2026

The new subsidy rules will make childcare more accessible by adjusting how subsidised hours are calculated. Here’s what will change:

Minimum of 3 Days of Subsidised Care per Week for All Families

Increased Support for First Nations Families

Additional Support for Working, Training, and Volunteering Families

Families will continue to receive 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight per child if they:

How CCS Eligibility is Determined

While the changes expand access to subsidised care, the actual subsidy percentage families receive will still depend on:

What’s Next?

The Australian Government is working with Services Australia to ensure childcare providers and families are prepared for the transition in January 2026. More details and guidance will be provided in the coming months to help families understand how these changes will affect them.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 CCS changes represent a significant step towards making early childhood education more accessible for Australian families. By ensuring that all CCS-eligible families receive at least three days of subsidised care and increasing support for First Nations children, these reforms will ease financial pressures and improve early learning opportunities.

As we approach the rollout, families are encouraged to stay informed and check their eligibility to make the most of these new benefits. Stay tuned for further updates as the government finalises the implementation process!

Stay up to date with our Grow Early Education centres on Facebook!

In an exciting initiative aimed at supporting families, Grow Early Education has partnered with ‘Brisbane Paediatric Nurse’ to offer free expert advice to parents and caregivers.

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to ensuring the health and wellbeing of children, providing families with the resources they need to navigate the often-overwhelming world of parenting.

About Brisbane Paediatric Nurse

Both Rebekah and Jodie are registered nurses and worked with Queensland Health before setting up their own practice to concentrate on supporting new parents. Their journey started 5 years ago when they began helping parents with newborns across the many areas to navigate as a new parent. Now they provide much needed support around sleeping, nursing, toilet training and child health to parents. Together they bring over 35 years of paediatric nursing experience to the partnership with Grow Early Education centres.

What is the Difference Between a Midwife & Paediatric Nurse?

Many people wonder what the difference between a Midwife and a Paediatric Nurse is? Midwives focus on providing healthcare services to mothers, babies and families throughout pregnancy, labour and the initial postnatal period. Paediatric Nurses are licensed registered nurses with a focus on treating children from infancy to puberty.

The Need for Expert Advice

Parenting can be both rewarding and challenging, with many questions arising about child development, health, and safety. From sleep patterns and nutrition to managing common illnesses, families often seek guidance to ensure they are making informed decisions. Recognising this need, Grow Early Education and Brisbane Paediatric Nurse have come together to provide a valuable and free resource for families.

What the Partnership Offers

The collaboration will include a series of free informational sessions and workshops led by qualified Paediatric Nurses, which will concentrate on key areas to help parents with infants.

Online Information Sessions

The first two dates for these free information sessions have just been released!

Baby Sleep Information Session

Wednesday 6th November, 9:30am

Google Meeting Link: https://meet.google.com/xsx-zbki-tdf

Covering the following topics:

Baby Feeding & Nutrition Information Session

Wednesday 20th November, 9:30am

Google Meeting Link: https://meet.google.com/ajc-wepa-fmn

Covering the following topics:

Workshops & Private Consultations

This initiative not only provides practical information but also fosters a sense of community among parents. It encourages open conversations about parenting challenges and helps reduce the stigma around seeking help. By bringing together experienced professionals and local families, and Brisbane Paediatric Nurse are creating a supportive environment where parents can feel empowered and informed.

Grow Early Education is dedicated to not just caring for children but also supporting the entire family unit. By collaborating with Brisbane Paediatric Nurse, they are reinforcing their mission to create a holistic approach to child development and wellbeing. This partnership also highlights the importance of community involvement in childcare, where parents, caregivers, and professionals can work together for the benefit of children.

Join Us

Families are encouraged to take advantage of this unique opportunity. Whether you’re a new parent seeking advice or a seasoned caregiver looking for tips on specific issues, the free online information sessions will provide invaluable insights.

Stay tuned for upcoming dates and details about the sessions, and don’t miss the chance to connect with experts who are dedicated to making a positive impact on your family’s life.

The partnership between Grow Early Education and Brisbane Paediatric Nurse is a remarkable step toward empowering families with knowledge and resources. By offering free expert advice, they are not only addressing immediate concerns but also laying the foundation for healthier, happier futures for children in the community. Embrace this opportunity to learn, connect, and grow together—because every family deserves the best support on their parenting journey.

 

If you are looking for quality early education and childcare in 2025, our long daycare centres are currently accepting enrolments.  Secure your child's place now for 2025!

We have childcare centres in Bridgeman Downs, Bundaberg, Bushland Beach, Dalby, Darling Heights, Hervey Bay, Maroochydore, Park Ridge, Riverton, Toowoomba, Rochedale Central (Rochedale South), Gunnedah, Kelso, Nowra, Frankston, Heathmont, Narre Warren North and Tarneit.

Play dough has been a staple in an early childhood setting for decades and there is a good reason why! Play dough is a great tactile resource, holding a number of benefits including encouraging creativity in Kindergarten, boosting fine motor skills in Junior Kindy, and discovering new senses with Toddlers.

As an incredibly loved resource for both children and Educators, play dough is often used for free play time and scheduled learning activities. During this blog, we will be sharing the many ways we find joy in using play dough across our Grow Early Education centres and share some insight on how you can replicate our play dough recipe and learnings in a home setting.

How to make your own home-made playdough!

What is needed:

Measuring cup

Mixing spoon

Tbsp

Mixing bowl

1/2 cup table salt

1 tbsp of oil

Food colouring

1 cup of flour

2 Tbsp cream of tartar

1 cup of water

Instructions:

Using this recipe as your play dough base, you can get creative and add your own variations to build on the sensory elements. Try adding a few drops of essential oils to discover new smells or add herbs to further develop the sensory aspect of texture and touch.

Across our Grow Early Education centres, there are a number of ways that our Educators incorporate play dough into our educational programs.

  1. Pattern Reognition

The Kindergarten children at our Grow Early Education Darling Heights centre used play dough as the base to their pattern making as a part of their introduction to pattern recognition. Pattern recognition in early childhood education refers to the ability young children have in identifying, understanding, and predicting sequences in their environment. It is a fundamental skill that lays the ground work for more complex problem-solving and mathematical solutions.

By adding the element of play dough and beads to this task, they are working on their fine motor skills, pincer grip skills, and hand-eye coordination.

2. Indigenous Culture

The Toddler children at our Grow Early Education Riverton centre learnt about the temporary shelters traditionally used by Australian Indigenous Peoples as a part of the Toddlers introduction to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

This by utilising play dough in this activity, it allowed the children to learn in a more hands-on way, while also encouraging further development of their comprehension, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills

3. Significant and Special Days

Our Educators often use play dough as a learning resource on significant and special days happening across the country.

Grow Early Education Bundaberg created their own versions of poppies as a part of the ANZAC Day learning, this is a great way to encourage inquisitive thinking as the children ask questions about the significance of the flower.

Grow Early Education Park Ridge used their own play dough recipe to create heart-shaped decorations as a part of their Valentines Day celebrations.

Grow Early Education Darling Heights used orange play dough to create different shapes as they celebrated Harmony Day across their centre.

4. Educational Programming

Grow Early Education Bundaberg used play dough to create blue birds nests as a part of their discussions on the Bowerbird Blues book that was this year's pick for National Simultaneous Storytime.

This activity allowed the children to discuss certain parts of the book they enjoyed with their peers, while also talking about what they know about birds and their nests.

By making your own play dough, you provide a wonderful sensory experience for children and also create lasting memories through shared activities. We hope this guide inspires you to experiment with different textures and colours, and most importantly, to have fun. Stay tuned for more exciting tips and ideas to enhance your playtime adventures.

Find your own printable version of our home-made play dough here!

We would love to see your at home play dough creations, tag us in your creativity on Instagram @grow_early_education or on Facebook @growearlyeducation

 

As the festive season gets into full swing, what better way to embrace the holiday spirit than by engaging in delightful Christmas crafts with your children?

Crafting is not just a fun way to spend quality time with your little ones; it's also a crucial component of a child's development and comes with a myriad of benefits.

At Grow Early Education, we recognise its role in nurturing various skills in children. So throughout the year, arts and crafts is a significant component of our educational programs at our long day care centres.

Why are arts and crafts beneficial for children? Engaging in craft activities fosters communication, attentiveness, imagination, and crucial developmental skills!

Here's a short outline of the skills children can grow through doing arts and crafts:

Fine Motor Skills:

Identification of Shapes, Colours, and Texture:

Creativity:

 

In this blog, we've curated our top five favourite and most popular Christmas craft ideas for you to enjoy at home with your children:

1. Paper Plate Baubles

This versatile craft allows you to use a variety of materials to decorate and hang paper plates, creating your own unique Christmas baubles. Whether it's stickers, paint, or coloured felt, choose materials that suit your child's age and development.

Here are some finished creations to give you and your little one some visual inspiration:

2. Popsicle Stick Ornaments

Transform ordinary popsicle sticks into festive ornaments, ranging from stars to Christmas trees and snowflakes. The possibilities for shapes and decorating ideas are infinite.

See below for different shape constructions and decorating ideas:

3. Hand Print Christmas Tree

Combining sensory play with craft, the handprint Christmas tree design is simple yet effective. After creating the tree on paper, canvas, or even a Christmas card, once it is dry it is then time to decorate your tree.

Here are some different designs you can make using your hand print:

4. Christmas Cookie Decorating

Perfect for baking enthusiasts, you can also involve your children in the baking part to extend their culinary skills. Use Christmas-themed cookie cutters or a cherished family recipe to start a lovely Christmas family tradition.

See below for some cookie decorating ideas and even how to create a Christmas cookie decorating board:

5. Pine Cone Ornaments

Incorporate natural materials into your arts and crafts by turning pine cones into mini-Christmas trees or creating unique figures like reindeers, angels, or owls. The natural texture of pine cones adds a unique element for children to discover and explore.

Here’s some amazing pine cone creations for you to see:

As Christmas Day fast approaches, our aim is to populate this month with festive experiences and activities for the children to enjoy in our childcare centres.

Follow us on Facebook for regular updates on our Christmas arts and craft activities, and get ready to be inspired by the wonderful Christmas creations from our Grow Early Education centres.

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