Since you asked…
Community Child Care Association’s blog for early childhood educators
![Educator and school aged children planting and digging in a garden bed](/sites/default/files/styles/blog_views_304_x_304/public/2024-04/iStock-494713606_Little%20girl%20planting%20vegtables%20in%20school%20garden%20during%20science%20class%20stock%20photo%208oow.jpg?itok=7_SGjfcO)
Question: As a single-educator OSHC coordinator with limited time and a small group of children, how can I keep programs vibrant and responsive with fewer children’s interests to springboard from, and no immediate colleagues to bounce ideas off?
Answer: Listen to families, lean on your peers, and utilise existing resources.
Firstly, you need to be a keen observer. Listen out for cues when children or families are talking …
![Two educators walking down a hallway in conversation](/sites/default/files/styles/blog_views_304_x_304/public/2024-04/iStock-533839124_Female%20Teachers%20Walking%20Down%20Hallway%20stock%20photo%20800w.jpg?itok=kyO2VBkt)
Question: What happens if I disagree with an Authorised Officer during Assessment and Rating? Is it a bad idea to politely question them on the spot?
Answer: Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification.
The Authorised Officer (AO) isn’t at the service to provide their own viewpoint or opinion about…
![Educator sitting on a child's chair, resting their chin in one hand and looking off in the distance](/sites/default/files/styles/blog_views_304_x_304/public/2024-04/shutterstock_2253981607%20800w.jpg?itok=P3usoCpL)
Question: I keep hearing about how there aren’t enough educators and teachers. What can we do to stop this affecting our children’s service?
Answer: Whilst there isn’t a magic fix-all, there are some steps you can take to keep your workforce strong.
- Think ahead and get planning.
When we get stuck in a reactive space trying to quickly…
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Question: What's the best way to get a new team connected quickly?
Answer: By creating a sense of belonging.
Unfortunately, there is no magic trick for connecting a new team. Reflect on how you can best support…
![An educator and school-aged children using coloured pencils together at a table.](/sites/default/files/styles/blog_views_304_x_304/public/2024-02/shutterstock_2280717457-800w.jpg?itok=TGy0U3kF)
Question: Is it OK to employ someone with limited experience?
Answer: Yes.
Many services are experiencing challenges in recruiting and retaining experienced staff. So, is it OK…
![Educators at a desk in conversation](/sites/default/files/styles/blog_views_304_x_304/public/2024-02/shutterstock_625372037-800w.jpg?itok=B-a4X8eP)
Question: We got our A&R notice this week. What can I expect as an educator?
Answer: Think of it as an opportunity to showcase your service programs and practice.
Assessment and rating (A&R) can be an exciting opportunity to showcase your service. An authorised officer (AO)…
![Educators with notepads sitting around a table having a conversation](/sites/default/files/styles/blog_views_304_x_304/public/2023-10/iStock-643365488%20Educators%20having%20a%20conversation_0.jpg?itok=7Qpl6aY-)
Question: I’m finding it hard to engage some educators in the programming and planning cycle, especially those who work part-time or casually. Any tips?
Answer: Involve all educators from the start, and support, assist and mentor them along the way.
Follow these tips to help get everyone engaged:
1. Foster a sense of belonging.
Ask all…
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Question: In light of the new Child Safe Standards, is showing physical affection towards children still appropriate in services?
Answer: Physical affection is appropriate when children are empowered to communicate their consent.
The Child Safe Standards have been designed to improve and maintain the safety of children in our…