"Supporting children's early development together" |
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What is ELF doing in term 4? |
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In this issue, we chat about our babies and their development. What matters first and foremost is attachment - we are wired for connection and every baby needs this to thrive and develop socially, emotionally and physically. Secure attachment is literally wiring the neurons in the brain. As parents and educators, we are constantly learning and relearning with each child in front of us. I love taking opportunities to either read, listen to podcasts or attend professional learning. The thing is - what I take away, or focus on, is often dependent on events that are happening with the children in my care. I think the most important takeaway from any learning is how important we are to children and how important it is to respect each child's stage of development - where they 'are' at a particular time. Each child need lots and lots of time to learn, develop and refine a skill. Each skill is an important precursor to the next stage. Don't rush it, embrace it. Enjoy this edition and feel free to get in touch if you have any questions, ideas or insights! And …🙏🏼please share this so that I can reach more passionate educators and communities.💖 (subscription option at the bottom of the newsletter) Deb 📨deb@elfwa.com 📞0427770531 |
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Baby and child development - connection and attachment |
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"Imagine a new-born, eyes wide with wonder, gazing up at their caregiver. In that simple yet profound exchange, a dance of attachment begins. It’s a dance that will continue throughout their life, influencing how they perceive themselves, others, and the world around them." (Understanding Attachment Theory in Childhood (neurolaunch.com)) The relationship between a child and their caregiver is a key predictor of development – social, emotional and physical. A baby bonds initially with a primary caregiver before extending outwards to others in their world. This is where we, as educators, come into play. Our role is significant and helps set the child up for life. face to face play, at the child's level - talk, play, laugh. prompt response to cries - after all this is how a child first communicates comforting when distressed. Be there, in the moment with them.
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"Fundamental to the Framework is a view of children’s lives as characterised by belonging, being and becoming. From before birth children are connected to family, communities, culture and place. Their earliest learning, development and wellbeing takes place through these relationships, particularly within families, who are children’s first and most influential educators." The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia – V2.0, 2022, p.6 |
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Educators who understand how imperative attachment is, are able to create environments that enhance learning and social + emotional development because the child feels safe and supported - i.e secure. |
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The benefits of each child having a secure attachment |
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Secure attachment plays a crucial role in emotional development by helping children regulate their emotions and build resilience. It provides a safe space for them to express feelings, develop empathy, and form healthy relationships. Ultimately, this foundation fosters a strong sense of self-worth and emotional stability, enabling them to navigate life's challenges with confidence. Secure attachment fosters cognitive benefits in children by enhancing their ability to explore, learn, and problem-solve. It provides a stable base from which they can delve into new experiences, leading to better attention, memory, and overall academic performance. Ultimately, secure attachment supports their confidence in tackling challenges and developing critical thinking skills. Secure attachment contributes to physical benefits by promoting healthy brain development and regulation of stress responses. Children may experience lower levels of anxiety and stress, which can positively influence their growth and immune function. |
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Do you enjoy bringing stories to life? Once you have read a story a few times and the children are familiar with it, take some of the characters into the outdoor play space and let the children replicate the story - telling it in their own way. It is a great way to use and practice new vocabulary. It lets the children make the setting- which might be identical or it might be changed. Either way, this is a powerful way to build children's understanding of how stories work. |
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Use beautiful children's literature, such as 'Who Sank the Boat?' by Pamela Allen |
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We all benefit from continual learning. I have just spent time learning about Makedo. Have you tried it? It is such fun. A group of adults from across all sectors : AISWA, CEWA, DOE, SCSA and run by Early Childhood Australia (ECA) played with the tools and ways to create movement using recycled cardboard. The tools are safe for little hands and include a saw. |
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Follow for tips on instagram and facebook |
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Childhood is a fleeting and precious time that should be cherished and protected. Allowing children to engage in play without rushing them into structured activities or overscheduling their days, fosters creativity, imagination, and a sense of wonder. By prioritising play and resisting the urge to rush childhood, we can let children create an environment that promotes holistic development and lifelong well-being. |
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| | ELF is always happy to be involved in helping families and communities to ensure our youngest citizens⏭️ thrive and flourish. | | |
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| | EVENTS Family and Community 🌳Play in the Park 🪄📖Storytime magic 🖖🏾Sensory Play 👶🏽Baby time ECEC professional learning 🗣️communication 🏫early development 🥹😢behaviour 📖talking and vocabulary 🏃🏽gross motor and fine motor All available in your towns and communities so please feel free to share . | | |
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