Making news this fortnight...

Position paper on early childhood mathematics

Early Childhood Australia and the Australian Association of Mathematics Teachers have released a joint position paper on early childhood mathematics. The position paper recognises that the development of young children’s productive dispositions to mathematical learning is crucial. Access the position paper here.

Fairer child support for separated families

The federal government will take the first step to make the child support system fairer for children in separated families. The Social Services Legislation Amendment (Child Support Measures) Bill 2023 will improve the timely collection of child support owing to parents and help prevent future debt among low-income parents. Details here.

Better online experiences for First Nations people

New research shows that more young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are turning to technology for cultural expression and engagement. Findings released by the eSafety Commissioner reveal First Nations youth are using the internet in greater than average numbers. Access here.

Registrations open for Be You Virtual Conference

The Be You Virtual Conference registrations are now open. This free two-day event will be held on 3 and 4 May 2023. This year’s theme will explore ‘Building capacity to thrive’, focusing on resilience, educator wellbeing, diversity and inclusion. Register now to be involved.

Greater flexibility with parental leave

The federal government has announced measures intended to provide greater flexibility for families by making it easier for parents to take unpaid leave. These changes will align with the unpaid parental leave provisions in the Fair Work Act. Read more here.

Nominations open for HESTA awards

Nominations for the 2023 HESTA Early Childhood Education & Care Awards have opened today. Since 2010, the national awards have recognised the frontline educators and carers at the very heart of Australia's early childhood education system. Nominate here.

Success for ‘hands-on’ education program

New analysis by ‘Hands on Learning’ has revealed significant educational and emotional improvements for students engaged in the program. The program builds wellbeing, engagement and school attendance through practical learning outside the classroom and continues to produce positive outcomes for participants. Download here.

More students to visit the nation’s capital

The ‘Parliament and Civics Education Rebate (PACER)’ program provides financial assistance for students to visit Canberra and experience national democratic and cultural institutions first-hand. Schools from outer regional, remote areas and disadvantaged schools will now be eligible for additional rebates as part of a pilot program. Learn more.

Reconciliation Symposium

Join us for an unforgettable experience at the ECA Reconciliation Symposium from 9 to 10 June 2023. View the program for our speakers and register now for your chance to connect with like-minded individuals, hear from visionary leaders and help drive positive change in the early childhood sector.

Play-based learning and intentionality

Intentional teaching is a practice through which educators make decisions about how to engage children through play effectively. It is a responsive approach that involves stepping in and out of play to balance opportunities for child- and adult-led learning in the everyday, ensuring learning outcomes for all children. Shop here.

ECA Podcast

Trauma-informed practice is vital when supporting children and families who have experienced vulnerability. This week on the ECA Podcast, we look closely at how educators can become more confident using trauma-informed practice. Now available on your favourite streaming platform.

Supporting anxious children and young people

Some children and young people feel anxious when changes, big or small occur in their day. A particularly stressful time is when children and young people start at early learning services, school and school aged care. Read Supporting anxious children and young people to learn more.

Science in Early Childhood

Explore changing priorities in early childhood science education, coverage of STEM, inclusivity, Indigenous understandings of science, science in outdoor settings, intentional teaching and reflective practice. Shop here.

New on The Spoke

'When planning for celebrations such as Easter, how are you going to work with your teams to promote arts practice, celebrate diversity and foster creativity?' This piece on The Spoke will help you reflect on how celebrations are marked in your setting. Read more.

Trauma and big behaviours: Responding to children's needs in a post-pandemic world

Join this online blended learning community where each learner will be supported in understanding how the needs of children have been impacted in a post-pandemic world. This online community provides the opportunity to unpack big life events and discover strategies to support the emerging complex needs of children. Enrol here.