Making news this fortnight...

New guide to belonging and connectedness in ECEC

ECA, in collaboration with the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO), has launched a practice guide focused on nurturing a sense of belonging and connectedness in ECEC. The guide explores evidence-based strategies for authentic connections, culturally safe environments, and empowering children’s agency. Learn more.

Public consultation for guidelines on preterm infants

The ‘Australian Clinical Guideline for Growth, Health and Developmental Follow-up of Infants Born Very Preterm’ seeks to present the best current scientific evidence to assist decision-making in the provision of follow-up services to infants born very preterm in Australia. Comments on the draft guideline are open until 24 September. View the guideline.

Latest National Quality Framework (NQF) Snapshot released

The Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) has released the NQF Snapshot Q2, 2023. The latest snapshot shows that the proportion of early childhood education and care services rated Meeting National Quality Standard (NQS) or above remains at 89%. Learn more.

Closing the hearing health gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children

The Australian Government is improving the hearing health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children through the delivery of the ‘Hearing Assessment Program—Early Ears’ (HAPEE) to reduce ear disease and prevent hearing loss in young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. View more information.

The Parenthood presents 'How to talk to your kids about The Voice'

The upcoming referendum will have a profound effect on the sort of nation our children will grow up in. On 12 September join Catherine Liddle, Jade Ritchie, Megan Daley and Jessica Rudd to find out more about the Voice and how it will help improve lives. Register here.

Upcoming calendar days

Explore relevant upcoming calendar dates to consider acknowledging in your service: Wear it Purple Day (25 August); Daffodil Day (31 August); Father’s Day (3 September); National Child Protection Week (3–9 September); Early Childhood Educators’ Day (6 September).

Induction essentials: A beginner’s guide to education and care

ECA has curated a collection of resources for educators who are new to the sector and are undertaking or yet to commence a formal education and care qualification. This collection is intended as a starting point for the core fundamentals before an educator starts in an education and care service. Sign up here.

Extend your learning

Stay up to date on the latest in best practice by subscribing to our invaluable resources. The Everyday Learning Series provides practical suggestions on how to create positive learning environments for young children. The Research in Practice Series offers effective new approaches for those challenging issues which arise in the care and education of young children. Subscribe today.

Stigma and mental health

A key element in reducing stigma related to mental health is for everyone in a community to have a good understanding of mental health—that is, improving our mental health literacy. You can play a key role in ‘calling out’ the stigma and discrimination experienced by children, young people and their families. Learn more.

New on The Spoke

Discover the magic of pleasurable food education in early childhood with the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation. Nourish young minds through interactive experiences with delicious, wholesome food. Learn how to create flexible kitchen spaces and foster a lifelong bond with seasonal ingredients. Read more.

Get your ticket today

If you’re not able to attend the 2023 ECA National Conference in person, ECA is excited to offer virtual registration options. This means you can be a part of the conference from the comfort of your own space—connecting with fellow attendees, accessing sessions and engaging in meaningful discussions. Register here.

Expressions of interest

ECA is seeking new members for the Australasian Journal of Early Childhood (AJEC) Committee. As part of the essential criteria, applicants are required to have knowledge of the early childhood sector and a master’s degree or higher in an early childhood–related field of study. View more information.

The Bunyip and the Stars

On a starless night, Wumbirr leaves the safety of the campfire and is captured by the fearsome bunyip. Ngariin will need everything she has learnt about the bush and her Country to rescue her little brother and escape the bunyip. A beautiful resource to share with children. Shop now.