Early Childhood Play Matters

Program details

Program description

Early Childhood Play Matters aims to equip early childhood educators with evidence and affirmation about the value of play. It focuses on:

• the importance of relationships – developing authentic, culturally appropriate and inclusive practice
• enhancing children's learning through 'scaffolding' and provision of rich, engaging environments
• strategies to encourage children to explore learning through investigations linked to the curriculum
• intentional teaching, planning for and documenting children's learning and development effectively.

Based on the 2015 book Early Childhood Play Matters, by Kathy Walker and Shona Bass, this presentation aims to reinforce the importance of play and intentional teaching, and how play provides essential foundations for life. It also discusses what constitutes best practice in a high-quality early childhood program. A copy of the Early Childhood Play Matters book will be sent to all attendees. There is the option to receive either a hard copy or e-book version of the publication.

Early Life Foundations early childhood consultants will explore the theory of play and how neuroscience informs understanding about children's development. Participants will learn innovative ways to 'add value' to the teaching of literacy, numeracy, STEM and life skills.

To maximise effectiveness, the provider recommends booking coaching sessions for dates after the professional development session has been attended.

Dates for 2027:

• Thursday 25th February 2027 9.30am - 12.30pm
• Wednesday 12th May 2027 9.30am - 12.30pm
• Wednesday 4th August 2027 9.30am - 12.30pm
• Thursday 21st October 2027 9.30am - 12.30pm

Dates for 2028:

• Thursday 24th February 2028 9.30am - 12.30pm
• Wednesday 10th May 2028 9.30am - 12.30pm
• Wednesday 2nd August 2028 9.30am - 12.30pm
• Thursday 19th October 2028 9.30am - 12.30pm

Customised sessions: contact the provider to discuss options and pricing

* This session is module 1 in our Play-based Learning Certification Pathway. The pathway can be completed over a 2 year planning cycle.

Detailed cost

• Early Childhood Play Matters including the eBook Early Childhood Play Matters by Kathy Walker: $340
• Optional coaching and mentoring online (2 x 1 hour session): $1420

In person coaching and mentoring: contact the provider to discuss options and pricing.

A 10% discount is available for 3 registrations or more excluding onsite Bush Kinder.

* Early Childhood Play Matters, Creating Engaging Environments for Preschoolers and Early Childhood - Teaching and Learning through Play are modules 1, 2 and 3 respectively in our Play-based Learning Certification Pathway. The pathway can be completed over a 2 year planning cycle.

Payment Schedule

• We accept debit and credit card payments, invoice payments via our website, EFT, or by contacting our office.
• Payment by invoice is due 30 days after the order date or before the booked event commences, whichever comes first. This includes scheduled and customised Professional Development bookings and Study Tours booked in advance.
• When paying by invoice your registration is not guaranteed until your payment is received in full prior to the event.
• Payment by credit card allows you to secure your registration(s) immediately.

Cancellation Policy

Scheduled Sessions (on our website):

• For all SRF scheduled bookings, whether paid or registered, you can notify us anytime via email or call our office to reschedule an attendee’s session or change the name on the registration.
• For cancellations of paid scheduled sessions made less than 14 working days before the scheduled date, we will apply a credit note. Credit notes must be used within the SRF’s two-year cycle from the date of issue.
• To amend bookings, please email our Administration Manager nicole@earlylife.com.au or call the office on 03 9551 1900.

Implementation considerations

• Target population: early childhood educators.
• Program/practice descriptions and details: session includes digital workbook and a copy of the Early Childhood Play Matters book.
• Staffing: consider a half day backfill for on-line session.
• Australian experience: Early Life Foundations play-based pedagogy known as Walker Learning has been developed for the Australian context and curriculum and has been delivered Australia wide.
• Supervision or coaching support: additional Coaching packages available for attendees (optional). Three one-hour blocks for individuals or small teams (delivered via zoom or phone call). This customised coaching will provide educators with tailored support to build on the skills and strategies outlined in the presentation and encourage reflection and development of practice.

VEYLDF alignment

Item uses these practice principles

• Reflective practice
• Partnerships with families
• High expectations for every child
• Respectful relationships and responsive engagement
• Integrated teaching and learning approaches
• Partnerships with professionals

Item responds to these sub-outcomes

Children become strong in their social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.