Every child arrives in the world with their own personality, preferences, and way of seeing things, and those early years are when that sense of self really begins to take shape. Between the ages of one and five, children are constantly learning who they are, where they belong, and how they relate to others. It’s a delicate, powerful stage of development, and early learning environments play a huge role in shaping it.
In Australia, childcare centres provide rich, supportive spaces where children can explore their identity through play, creativity, relationships, and everyday experiences. From the stories they tell to the roles they try on, each moment helps build confidence, belonging, and self-understanding.
Below are meaningful, age-appropriate self-identity activities for toddlers that parents and childcare educators can use to nurture a strong sense of self during these formative years.
1. Storytelling and self-expression
Stories help children make sense of themselves and the world around them. Through picture books, puppets, role-play, or even their own drawings, children learn how to express thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Encouraging them to tell their own stories gives them a voice and reinforces that their ideas matter.
2. Creative & artistic exploration
Art gives children the freedom to express feelings they may not yet have words for. With access to crayons, paints, markers, clay, and collage materials, children can create representations of themselves, their families, or their favourite things. These moments of creativity build confidence and self-esteem while helping children discover and celebrate who they are.
3. Cultural awareness & belonging
Australia’s multicultural communities offer a beautiful opportunity to introduce children to diversity from an early age. Celebrating different cultures through stories, music, food, and traditions helps children feel seen and included, while also learning to appreciate others.
4. Family connections
A child’s identity is deeply connected to their family. Involving families in the childcare experience creates a bridge between home and care. When children see their family life valued in their learning environment, it strengthens their sense of belonging and emotional security.
5. Dress-up & role-play
Whether they’re pretending to be a doctor, builder, artist, or parent, role-play allows children to explore different possibilities and perspectives. A dress-up corner with costumes and props gives children the freedom to experiment with roles, emotions, and ideas, all while developing confidence and social understanding.
6. Names, families & personal stories
Learning about their name, family members, and personal story helps children understand who they are and where they come from. Activities like name recognition cards, photo displays, or simple family trees allow children to see themselves as an important part of a bigger story.
7. Emotional awareness & mindfulness
A strong sense of identity includes understanding emotions. Through age-appropriate mindfulness activities, emotion-focused stories, and open conversations about feelings, children learn how to recognise and express emotions safely. This emotional awareness builds resilience and self-confidence as children grow.
8. Nature & connection to place
Exploring the natural world helps children form a deeper connection to their environment. Nature walks, gardening, and observing local wildlife encourage curiosity, responsibility, and a sense of belonging to the land they call home.
9. Music, movement & self-confidence
Music and movement invite children to express themselves physically and emotionally. Singing, dancing, and experimenting with instruments supports coordination, rhythm, and emotional expression, while helping children feel confident in their bodies and abilities.
10. Show and tell
A timeless favourite, Show and Tell gives children the opportunity to share something meaningful with their peers: a toy, a photo, or a story from home. These moments help build confidence, communication skills, and pride in their individuality.
Find childcare that nurtures who your child is becoming
When parents and childcare providers work together to create supportive, inclusive environments, children are empowered to grow into confident, curious individuals who feel secure in who they are.
If you’re looking for a childcare centre that aligns with your values and supports your child’s emotional, social, and personal development, Care for Kids makes it easy to find and compare childcare options across Australia. Explore centres near you, compare availability and care styles, and choose a place where your child can truly thrive.
Start your search today and find childcare that supports your child’s sense of identity from the very beginning.
