As parents, choosing the right early learning environment for your child is an important decision. You want a place that nurtures their growth, allows for their individuality to be seen (the way you see them!) and where your child feels safe and connected to the adults caring for them.
Our approach to Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) is considered, and we want to share with you some of the investment decisions we have made to ensure the children who atta a BFS service receives quality of education and care. Here’s why:
NB: We don’t use the term childcare anymore as we see our services as so much more than a babysitting service…
1. Qualified Teachers Make a Difference
Research consistently shows that teacher qualifications are linked to better outcomes for children. Our commitment to hiring additional degree-trained Early Childhood Teachers means your child is learning from professionals who understand child development deeply. These qualified teachers bring specialised skills that support your child’s cognitive, emotional, social, and physical growth. You will find qualified teachers in all of our services!
The Impact of Early Education
Did you know that a child’s brain develops more rapidly in the first five years than at any other time? Our teachers are equipped to harness this critical period, ensuring that your child has access to teaching and learning that supports their cognitive, emotional, social, and physical needs.
Long-Term Benefits: The skills and relationships your child develop in their early years lay the foundation for their future learning and success. Our commitment to quality education means your child is not just prepared for preschool but for a lifetime of learning.
2. Investment in Relational Pedagogy
At the heart of our approach is the understanding that children learn best when they feel safe and secure. Neuroscience tells us that the frontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for thinking, shuts down when children are stressed or feel unsafe. When children experience stress, cortisol levels rise, which can hinder their ability to focus, retain information, and engage in learning activities. This is why we prioritise strong relationships and attachment to caregivers. When children feel secure, cortisol levels decrease, allowing their brains to function optimally.
Creating a Safe Learning Environment
Training in Relational Pedagogy: We invest in training our educators in Relational Pedagogy, which focuses on building secure attachments. This year, we are collaborating with RIE specialist, Nellie Hodda, to enhance our respectful infant-toddler pedagogy.
Circle of Security Training: Last year, we brought in psychologists Dr. Robyn Dolby and Belinda Friezer to train our staff in the Circle of Security approach. This method emphasises the importance of understanding children’s emotional needs, ensuring they feel secure and ready to learn.
3. Curated Environments for Children
Our services are designed to support the whole child. We recognise that cognitive, emotional, social, and physical growth are interconnected. By investing in thoughtfully curated environments, we create safe and educational environments that encourage exploration, creativity, and interaction. These spaces foster holistic development, allowing children to engage in activities that promote essential skills and emotional well-being.
Why This Matters
A well-designed space not only supports social interaction and independence but also enhances physical development through opportunities for active play. When children feel secure and empowered in their surroundings, they are more likely to thrive, laying a strong foundation for future learning and success.
Well-presented environments convey respect to children. They send a message that we care and have taken time to make spaces special for the children. Environments are also powerful in sending messages to children about how they are expected to use the space and the boundaries that are in place to support their learning and keep them safe.
4. A Community of Support
When you choose our ECEC services, you’re joining a community that values quality education and care. Our educators are passionate about what they do, and they are dedicated to creating a nurturing environment for every child.
Your Child’s Success is Our Mission
Ongoing Training: We are continuously working to improve our practices and ensure that our educators are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills. This commitment to professional development translates into better outcomes for your child.
As a not-for-profit provider of ECEC, we use the latest research. We engage with leading professionals in the sector and we advocate to government on behalf of teacher, educators, children and families for quality education and care. With qualified teachers, a focus on relational pedagogy, and a holistic approach to development, we are dedicated to setting your child up for success.
Choosing the right early learning environment is about more than just cost; it’s about the future of your child. Our intentional and considered approach means every child is valued, nurtured, and prepared for a bright future.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our programs, please don’t hesitate to connect with our teams today.
Your child’s success is our priority!
