Sight, sound, touch, smell and taste – the five senses through which we experience our world. During the crucial early years of life, the areas of the brain that are responsible for each are constantly making new neural connections. Therefore, an environment that encourages the use of all of them is vital – and it’s something that’s an integral element of Reggio Emilia settings.
While we can look at each sense individually, it’s important to remember that the whole system is dynamic. Each interacts with the others – for example, seeing the redness of a strawberry, feeling its rough texture, smelling the aroma and tasting its sweetness.
Babies are born with limited eyesight, seeing only the blur of shapes with no ability to see at distance. This develops over the first months and years. Between the age of 3-5, their vision will be comparable to an adult, but the eye-brain pathway continues to enhance until around eight years old (on average).
Once this is understood, the importance of providing visual stimuli becomes clear. In Reggio Emilia settings, this is encouraged through a variety of methods, such as:
In the earliest weeks and months, touch is one of the foremost ways a baby interacts with the world. In the early learning environment, it’s vital that this is continued, as tactile experiences not only promote discovery, but are one of the building blocks of critical thinking and problem-solving.
Reggio Emilia classrooms are filled with texture. Children are free to touch and explore, creating their own path of discovery. Examples might include creative activities with dry autumn leaves – who doesn’t love their crunchy crispness? A sand pit, water bobbing, mud pies (yes, getting messy is an important element of sensory play), finger painting and more.
Another staple is a sensory basket, filled with a wide variety of textured objects. Such play not only helps develop touch but also introduces vocabulary as children learn to vocalise what they feel.
The area of the brain that interprets sound is developing way before a baby enters the world. At around 18 weeks they can hear noises within the body – and at around 27 weeks this extends to exterior sound, such as voices and music. However, distinguishing between sounds and understanding them is a skill that’s learned during the first weeks, months and years after birth.
This is encouraged through:
Smell is one of the most fascinating senses because it stimulates both the conscious and subconscious mind. We’ve all experienced that sudden rush of emotion or a long-forgotten memory when a certain smell hits our nostrils – it’s a well-understood reaction and one used by marketers to drive consumer behaviour in many settings.
Developing the sense of smell is crucial during the early years as it has a strong influence on memory, emotion and learning. It can be encouraged in so many ways, such as smelling flowers, sniffing food before tasting it and exploring the aroma of herbs and other cooking ingredients. Once again, encouraging the development of smell is cross-linked to other senses, such as the smell and feel of fresh grass during outdoor play or noting the colour of a banana and the sweetness of both its smell and taste.
The foundations of healthy nutrition are laid during childhood. In the Reggio Emilia setting, children are encouraged to explore different foodstuffs, learning about different tastes and textures. Again, this crossover between taste and touch (or mouthfeel) is highlighted and can be encouraged in so many ways.
In the early learning environment, this is promoted through making mealtimes fun. Children are encouraged to take the lead and assist with food preparation and presentation. Finger bowls and tasting plates are common. Experimenting with different foods fosters a great attitude towards food. Multi-cultural classrooms are fabulous for this, with activities centred around tasting traditional elements commonly enjoyed on tables around the world being a great way to experience different dishes and the taste opportunities they bring.
At Evoke Early Learning, we adopt the Reggio Emilia approach throughout our nursery, toddler and kindergarten programmes. Sensory learning is at the forefront of our learning spaces and a primary focus in our childcare philosophy.
Discover more about enrolling your child at Evoke Early Learning and book a tour to see us in action.
Incorporating the wonders of the outdoors throughout indoor locations is a theme that runs strongly through Reggio Emilia-inspired classrooms and play areas. This core element of childcare philosophy melds the natural world into the fabric of day-to-day life, creating an environment that helps drive curiosity, creativity and imagination.
The earliest years of life are a time when humans really do make the most of all the natural senses. From touch and smell to vision, hearing and taste, exploring and learning about the world can be encouraged through the provision of natural materials.
On entering a Reggio Emilia-inspired classroom, one thing that becomes immediately obvious is the lack of man-made materials, such as plastic. Instead, containers might be made of metal or wicker, furniture could be wooden, tactile soft furnishings utilise natural fabrics – like cotton or wool - and plant life is usually abundant. Another overriding theme is the use of light. This could enter the space through large and strategically placed windows or, especially in the balmy Australian climate, through careful use of outside space, yard areas, garden rooms etc.
During a child’s crucial early years, the brain forms neural connections at outstanding speed. This process is stimulated through all five senses, with touch being extremely powerful. By providing multiple natural materials – each with a unique texture and feel – a child’s naturally inquisitive nature will be piqued.
For example:
But touch is only one of the senses. A child’s neural growth is also stimulated through other powerful sensory triggers, such as:
Imagination and exploration are key to the Reggio Emilia concept of ‘the environment as the third teacher’. Promoting this during early childhood development plays a crucial role in instilling a love of learning that will be taken forward in life. The use of natural materials is an excellent way to stimulate creativity, sensory exploration, environmental awareness, problem-solving and resourcefulness.
For example, children learn through play elements, such as:
Natural materials in a Reggio Emilia space can be random and varied. From plentiful colourful rugs and throws to displays created by children using only natural materials, items are designed to encourage discovery and questioning. Even something as simple as wooden furniture rather than plastic or using stones and pebbles as counters instead of man-made ones provides an enhanced textural experience.
The use of natural materials – especially those that are gathered locally – further drives awareness of the surroundings and the understanding of the natural world. At Evoke, our childcare values and the Reggio Emilia approach are mirrored across our Albert Park and Clayton centres and through all the nursery, toddler and Kindy curriculums.Book a tour today and come and see us in action.
While it’s perfectly normal for both you and your child to feel a little sad for a few minutes when you part, separation anxiety is a completely different matter. It’s a surprisingly common childhood challenge, most usually experienced in children between six months and three years of age.
Even if your child doesn’t appear to be too concerned when you leave him or her, taking steps to mitigate the negative emotions separation can cause is a wise move.
Separation anxiety can happen when a child is parted from their primary caregiver (often, but not always, the mother). When very young, they haven’t yet developed the brain connections that allow them to understand that this time apart is only temporary. For the child, what they experience is that their main form of comfort isn’t there. It usually manifests as soon as the caregiver leaves their line of sight.
One of the most common signs is the child becoming very clingy when you’re about to leave. This might be accompanied by tears – many a parent has experienced those heart breaking moments when they drop their little one at a day care centre, for example.
Other signs include:
Although it can be very upsetting to see your child in distress, take heart that a level of anxiety is a completely natural reaction. During the critical early years of a child’s life, the neural connections within the brain are increasing at an incredibly fast pace – at a rate of thousands per day - all of which are influenced by their surroundings and experiences.
Therefore, there are multiple things you can do to help your child manage and understand the feelings that are driving their anxiety.
Dealing with separation anxiety can be tough - no one wants to see their child upset. At Evoke Early Learning, our experienced early childhood educators will always discuss and help parents and caregivers with any challenges. Whether your child is in our nursery, toddler, or kindergarten program, rest assured that we strive to complement the great steps you’re taking to bring up your child – and that includes helping deal with any separation anxiety issues.
Discover more about us and our childcare philosophy today.
In a world where we understand the importance of encouraging children to explore and learn through what piques their interest, the words ‘structured childcare’ can sound rather jarring. Therefore, we need to understand the difference between a program being structured versus one that’s rigid.
Indeed, while the latter harps back to long outdated views and concepts, a structured play and early learning environment have been proven time and time again to be the most advantageous to future happiness and success.
Learning isn’t something that a child performs in isolation. The first five years of life is a period of constant education. It’s when the brain undergoes incredible evolution, building neurological pathways that will influence every aspect of life. From the way they deal with challenges to social interaction, a thirst for knowledge to successful relationships – we owe it to the adults of tomorrow to provide them with the very best grounding from which they can grow.
Enter the structured learning environment – something that provides carefully planned and strategic approaches that benefit every aspect of early education.
Before we dive in, it’s important to know that the concept can be embraced in all environments. Your child begins the learning journey at birth. This means that a positive framework is encouraged both at home and in more formal locations, such as an early learning centre or kindergarten.
The following are examples of how structure will benefit your child.
At Evoke Early Learning, we advocate for the rights of all of our children, respecting them as individuals and providing a home-from-home that supports and continues the great work that parents and caregivers are doing.
We offer nursery, toddler/pre-Kindy and Kindergarten programs that combine the benefits of structure with the flexibility that encourages each child to learn the skills necessary to fulfil their unique potential.
Discover more about our values and contact our team for a chat today.
Independence is an essential life skill. Building the foundations starts at a very young age – and there’s plenty that parents and caregivers can do to encourage this.
Toddlers are naturally inquisitive. Every waking hour is filled with new discoveries and the brain is undergoing the steepest learning curve of life. Every day, new neural connections are being formed. From learning the names of animals to following bedtime routines, there are many age-appropriate activities that play a large part in encouraging a child to explore and build resilient independence.
As adults, we all know how feelings of self-doubt can plague our decisions, actions and day-to-day activities. While such emotions are natural and a central part of who we are, a strong sense of independence is what helps us cope at times of high stress, uncertainty and change.
Independence helps us to:
Ultimately, fostering independence from a young age has a direct impact on current and future happiness. This is something we all want for our children and there are many ways that we can help them during the earliest stages of life.
You only need to look at children – even during their first early months – to see that they’re on a quest for independence. Trying to get out of the playpen, grabbing for a favourite toy, trying to feed themselves… These are all examples of exploring and pushing the boundaries of increasing independence.
Encouragement and guidance are key. In fact, it’s pretty much all we need to do – the child’s natural curiosity will do all the rest.
It's really easy to incorporate little stages of independence into everyday life. Let your child dress themselves, allow them to self-feed, choose their own toys, help with simple chores (with assistance if needed or asked for, of course). Before you know it they’ll be making choices, solving problems and showing you many other signs of readiness that they’re ready to take on more complex issues.
At Evoke Childcare, encouraging independence is key within our open learning environment. Toddlers are encouraged to explore and express themselves in our carefully curated, age-appropriate spaces. Our whole childcare philosophy is based on our belief that every child is a curious, capable and unique individual.
Discover more about us, our values and childcare centres by getting in contact today.
Parents and guardians play a huge role in childhood education. Even if you take full advantage of a great early childhood education centre, the most precious member (or members) of your family still spends more time with you than anyone else.
The more you understand the impact you have during these crucial formative years, the more you can create the positive environment and surroundings that provide the building blocks of future success.
The more you’re involved in your child’s early education, the better. Nothing is more rewarding than sitting down and reading a book with your little one – and such activities are the cornerstones on which their future academic success relies.
Academic qualities aren’t the only area where parents and caregivers have an impact. Creating a positive home environment where the child is encouraged to explore their natural curiosity and learn plays a massive role in developing life skills as well.
The following looks at ways that you, as a parent, caregiver or guardian can work in tandem with your child’s early learning centre.
The more activities and the home environment encourage positive and fun learning, the better you’ll be supporting the more formal education they receive at your chosen centre. Many early childhood learning facilities have children completing a daily log or journal to share with their parents.
And if they don’t? Well, why not suggest it? Every good early education school welcomes feedback from parents. You could even offer to get more hands-on by reading a story to the children or, if you have the capacity, volunteer to help out on a regular basis.
The more involvement you have in your child’s early education, the more your child will benefit. Bedtime stories, those fun/educational days out, asking your child about their day and encouraging them to share what they’ve learned… Plus that all-important communication with early childhood educators to understand what your child is good at and where they need more support… These are all simple yet powerful ways that you can ensure you have the best positive impact.
We all want what’s best for our children – and these little steps don’t only benefit our little ones, it’s also incredibly rewarding for you as well.
At Evoke Early Learning we actively encourage parental engagement. From our carefully created curriculum that we’re delighted to share with you, through our use of the Reggio Emilia approach and curated nursery, toddler and kindergarten-specific education programme, we consider our centre as the perfect home-from-home extension that continues the great work that parents and guardians are doing.
Read more about our childcare philosophy and call your local centre today.
The term ‘emotional intelligence’ describes the ability to both empathise with others and to understand and express our own emotions. It’s often expressed by the acronym, EQ – although this shouldn’t be mistaken for the similar term, IQ. The latter stands for intelligence quotient and describes cognitive abilities.
Conversely to EQ, a person’s IQ is nurtured through education. However, there’s a strong relationship between EQ and IQ, with the emotional element requiring the same diligent care and attention for healthy development. This is especially true during the early formative years of a child’s life.
Together, EQ and IQ complement each other and the championing of both is equally important. It’s also true that raising a child’s EQ has a positive effect on their IQ. Thus, building strong foundations in the early years can have a significant impact on later life.
EQ, according to the Oxford English Dictionary, can be defined as:
“The capacity to be aware of, control, and express one's emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically.”
In a world where we’re now increasingly aware of how mental health has a strong effect on a person’s current and future happiness, success and physical health, nurturing the building blocks of emotional intelligence must be given the highest consideration.
The earlier we make strategic efforts to do so, the more likely a child is to be able to:
The more adept a person is at all the above, the better this impacts their mental health and wellbeing.
It’s important to approach emotional intelligence with the same care and effort that we do for other areas of a child’s education. In the same way as academic prowess, the level of EQ a child can achieve is bespoke to them. We owe it to the future generation to help them develop their own emotional intelligence to the utmost of their ability.
Parents, caregivers and early education professionals have a wide variety of tools at their disposal. These can all be utilised to help tots, toddlers and pre-schoolers create the sound building blocks that will lead to them achieving their best EQ.
One powerful way we can do this is to lead by example. Seeing and being around adults that have healthy emotional behaviour is incredibly influential to young minds. Other, more structured, techniques include:
Early childhood education centres can further build upon the work being done within the family home. They might include mindfulness techniques and play-based learning, This, in combination with positive reinforcement for all efforts (no matter how large or small) helps build the skills that increase emotional intelligence. These include:
A good way for parents, caregivers and early childhood educators to help young children build the basis of a healthy EQ is to think of it as a five-step process:
At Evoke Early Learning, we place equal importance on both IQ and EQ development. From our philosophy that value and respect of each child is unique to embracing the Reggio Emilia Approach, our highly trained and passionate team works with our children to provide the ultimate preschool environment to fast track future success.
Ready to find out more? Book a tour to come and see us in action…
Creating a diverse environment within an early childhood education facility plays a huge role in how children begin to understand those who are different from them and their families.
A child’s understanding of the world is built upon multiple influences. From life at home to the hours spent in an early learning school, this is the time of life when deep-seated attitudes and beliefs begin to be formed. To fully comprehend how such centres can promote a favourable atmosphere we first need to look at why being exposed to a diverse world during these years is so important.
Diversity encompasses a huge range of differences. From the most obvious, such as ethnicity, gender and religion, through to an understanding of ecological and technical diversity, the ability to view such differences positively is key to a child discovering and becoming comfortable with their place in the order of the world.
In addition, the more a child explores their natural curiosity and embraces that which is different from their own ‘normal’, the more respectful and inclusive they’ll become – embracing these contrasts rather than seeing them in a negative light.
Every community celebrates a wide range of diversity. From the moment an infant’s brain begins to form neurons and connections, they begin to soak up information like a sponge. As they grow, they naturally begin to develop behaviours that are based on their own norm. The more a child is exposed to the diverse world in combination with – and this is very important – their curiosity being nurtured and nourished – the more they will develop respectful and inclusive social graces and beliefs.
The first step is to create a wholly inclusive environment. This can be approached in many ways, but typically involves a setting that’s enriched with both the diversity of the natural world and that which is created by humans.
The first step is to create a wholly inclusive environment. This can be approached in many ways, but typically involves a setting that’s enriched with both the diversity of the natural world and that which is created by humans.
Let’s look at some of the benefits of role play in more detail.
Children learn best by piquing their interest and encouragement to participate. Use props to let children explore in whatever direction they find interesting. For example, let them handle and play different musical instruments. This could lead on to discussions about where these originated from, which in turn could incorporate the use of maps or globes to discover more about different countries and regions.
A wildlife hunt in a safe outside area might move into the importance of caring for animals. This could include why it’s vital not to drop litter, or perhaps into how and why growing your own food is advantageous.
The reasoning behind diversity and inclusion isn’t solely about accepting and celebrating the difference between us. It’s also about comprehending that every decision and action we take has repercussions – both on other people and the world around us. Early learning centres play an important role in helping nurture tomorrow’s adult population to engage with the world positively and become valuable members of the community.
At Evoke Early Learning, we take this element of early child education very seriously. We’ve developed and constantly review our positive policies and procedures that promote a truly healthy and inclusive environment. All our staff undergo regular diversity training, including how to best support children with additional needs. Our curriculums are tailor-designed to wholly represent the wonderful diverse world we live in today - from nursery through to toddler and kindergarten.
At Evoke Early Learning, we take this element of early child education very seriously. We’ve developed and constantly review our positive policies and procedures that promote a truly healthy and inclusive environment. All our staff undergo regular diversity training, including how to best support children with additional needs. Our curriculums are tailor-designed to wholly represent the wonderful diverse world we live in today - from nursery through to toddler and kindergarten.
‘No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted’
There’s no doubt that the world could benefit from more acts of kindness - both big and small - and our first step towards this is to raise our children to be kind, compassionate and caring.
But how do we do that? Is it easier said than done? Is it even possible to teach kindness and compassion or are these simply genetic traits that are stronger in some people than in others?
The reality is that everyone has the capacity for altruism, but not everyone is given the opportunity to develop that innate concern for the wellbeing of other people into a guiding principle which informs how they go about their daily lives.
That’s where parents, caregivers and educators have a huge role to play. We can lay the foundations for young children to become kinder, gentler and more compassionate - and by doing so, will help set them on course to become more ethical, connected, appreciative and contented adults.
If you look at some of the most influential people in world history such as Nelson Mandela, Mother Theresa, Mahatma Gandhi, Barack Obama, Bill Gates, you’ll notice that they were all deeply compassionate people. They genuinely cared about the wellbeing of others and were motivated by a desire to take action which would help others.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could teach our children to empathise with others, to understand and respect people’s differences, to be considerate, to give back and to be generous? Well, we can.
Whether at home, at childcare or early school, here are five ways that we can help our kids become more thoughtful, kind and compassionate.
Children do as they see. They’ll mirror your behaviour and take their cues from you, so it is important to set a good example and to be consistent in your actions. Talk to your child often about the importance of kindness and respect and why your family values these qualities - and remember, always use positive and encouraging language.
Communication is so important when it comes to instilling values in our young children. Try and point out occasions where you have done - or are doing - something for another person and explain the reasons why you acted in that way. Talking about emotions and feelings will help children develop a sense of empathy and also to be more proactive about being kind, caring and thoughtful.
“I opened the door for the lady in the wheelchair as I could see it might be difficult for her to reach the handle”. “Let’s check that there’s water in the dog’s bowl as it is so hot today and he might be extra thirsty”. “Let’s ask that child if she would like to join in the game as she is sitting on her own”. “I’m making a cake for Jenny as she is sick at home”.
Giving your child lots of examples of compassionate and kind acts will help them learn to put themselves in others’ shoes. And remember, these don’t have to always be substantial interventions. Simply being polite and respectful towards other people in your everyday interactions will encourage your child to follow your lead.
Try not to leap straight into admonishment or punishment mode when your child has erred - and avoid embarrassing them in public. Rather be supportive, talk through the situation with them, ask why they behaved in a certain way, ask about what emotions they were feeling and if they could suggest a different way of doing things. When a child feels that they’ve been heard and their feelings acknowledged, they’re more likely to listen to others.
Gratitude teaches children to be kinder as it helps develop a sense of appreciation for what they have (and who they have) in their lives and how the acts of others impact how they feel.
There are many ways you can encourage your child to be grateful. Talk to your child often about what you’re grateful for. Set aside time at the dinner table where every member of the family can chat about something that they were thankful for during the day. Have a gratitude jar in which the family can pop little ‘thank you’ notes. Stick a piece of paper on the fridge with a magnet and write down regular ‘gratitude’ posts. Encourage your child to do something positive for the person for whom they are grateful.
Experts agree that reading books with your child helps them develop empathy and compassion. They identify with the feelings of characters in the book. They learn about different cultures and perspectives and this helps them develop an understanding that not everyone experiences the world in the same way.
Thankfully, kindness and compassion are qualities that children can learn over time and through practice. What we do in the home, at school and out in the community all play a significant part in fostering these skills in young children and setting them on course to becoming decent, well-adjusted, engaged and caring adults who are not only kind to others, but who are kind to themselves too.
Here at Evoke Early Learning, we nurture professional, trusting and reciprocal relationships between our educators, our children and their families. Our safe, nurturing and inclusive environments not only promote knowledge, inspire a lifelong love of learning, built resilience, responsibility, self-confidence, teamwork, problem-solving skills as well as creative and scientific thinking - they’re also geared towards encouraging our children to become kinder and more compassionate individuals.
To find out more, or to see these values in action at our childcare centre in Albert Park and our childcare centre in Clayton, we warmly invite you to book a tour or get in touch with our friendly team. We’d love to meet you and your child!
It’s not easy teaching little ones to become more independent, but it is really worth putting in time and effort to help children develop this key skill.
A child who is self-sufficient is likely to have a healthier self-esteem and in a better position to navigate the challenges that life will inevitably throw at them. They’ll learn to trust themselves, take responsibility for their actions and not be reliant on others, but for some young children (and for some parents), learning to let go and do things for themselves is a challenge.
If your child is starting to show signs of wanting to be more independent, if you want to help your child build self-confidence before starting early school or if you’re looking for ways to encourage their self-sufficiency, you’ll find the following tips helpful.
Nurturing independence is far easier in safe, supportive spaces which are set up properly.
Elements like having a low hook for a young child to hang a coat onto, providing easy access to toy and shoe boxes, placing books on low shelves, keeping non-breakable cups and plates in a reachable area, having a stool so they can reach the sink to wash their hands etc will increase the chances of them doing things for themselves.
When children don’t do things for themselves and therefore don’t get an understanding of what it means to persevere until they succeed or find a solution, they can develop a fear of failure. By encouraging a young child to take age-appropriate risks (like walking along a low log without an adult’s helping hand or climbing the monkey bars), you help them learn from their mistakes, build resilience, confidence and independence.
Allowing a young child to choose their clothes and self-dress can be as much an exercise in parental patience as it is in encouraging independence, but the rewards are significant. Fine and gross motor skills are honed and the child will feel a sense of accomplishment and will feel empowered.
Brushing teeth, helping in the kitchen, putting dirty clothes in the wash basket, turning off a tap, filling up a pet’s water bowl, turning the knob on the washing machine are all examples of ways you can help a child learn to DIY. Mastering these will take practice and there will be slip-ups and frustrations along the way - so remember to always focus on positive reinforcement and encourage them to try and try again.
It can feel counter-intuitive to stand back and watch a child struggle because it goes against your natural instinct as a parent, but there is real merit in allowing them the time and space to keep trying. This will help them develop important problem-solving skills, help improve their self-esteem and cope with adversity. And remember, you’re not aiming for perfection!
It’s helpful to encourage your young child to help in the kitchen with meal preparation, tidying up, getting a cup of water etc. They will learn that their contribution is important and valued and they’ll like (and want) the feeling of achievement and purpose that it brings.
Learning to self-feed is a gradual process. Yes, it will be messy and time-consuming, but young children really benefit from having a sense of control and the earlier you start, the better.
If we’re always rushing in to correct our child’s actions and sort things out so they’re done the ‘right’ way, we run the risk of teaching them to be helpless rather than self-sufficient and independent. Our role is to set strong foundations for children to thrive and to provide for them, but equally, our job is to empower children to provide for themselves.
That brings us to the question of why high quality childcare matters for children’s development and how your choice of early education provider can have a material impact on your child’s ability to become self-sufficient.
Our spaces at Evoke Early Learning are carefully designed to develop independence as the children create their own play and direct their own explorations. We’re inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach to early education which ‘future proofs’ young children, equips them with the necessary knowledge, skills, dispositions, attitudes, languages and self-agency for transitioning to big school and for active participation in all areas of life. If you’re considering quality childcare in Clayton or early learning in Albert Park, you’re welcome to book a tour or have a chat to our team about enrolling your child.
