Educators play an important role in the future of our children by nurturing their minds and supporting our families along the way. They're very much an extension of your family. But, their impact extends far beyond the early education setting of which they are employed. They not only educate the youngest minds in our families, they also inspire, guide, and create lasting bonds with the children they nurture.
Our children.
We’re celebrating the profound influence our educators have on our children and how their dedication and closeness with families contributes to the lasting impact on our lives.
Building strong foundations
Educators are the architects of a child's education, and in particular, their early learning journey. They provide children with the tools and knowledge they need to grow, not only academically but emotionally.
By creating a safe and stimulating environment for them to learn, it encourages children to explore, question, and thrive. Educators foster curiosity and instil a lifelong passion for education.
Nurturing emotional development
Beyond the practicalities, educators also play a critical role in nurturing children's emotional and social development. They provide a supportive and caring presence, helping children develop self-confidence, empathy, and resilience.
Through the positive reinforcement outlined in the early learning years framework as well as incredible encouragement and guidance, educators empower children to believe in themselves and overcome challenges, fostering a strong sense of self-worth and resilience that carries into adulthood.
Establishing lifelong connections
Educators often form deep connections with the children and families they work with. These relationships extend far beyond the boundaries of the service and can last for years to come.
Sam from Nino Early Learning Adventures has been in the sector for around twelve years and has worked hard to become a regional centre manager.
Sam says, "I'm still in touch with some families that I've looked after from long ago. They were the first children I ever looked after. She actually works in the medical field, and I saw her only a couple of weeks ago. Her own child is 17 now. It does make you feel a little old,” Sam jokes.
“But to just hear how they're going and where they are now, where they've gone with their lives... it's amazing to know that we can be a part of that and influence them in their teaching as well."
Families often return to their former educators to share updates on their children's progress, seek advice, or simply express gratitude for the impact they had on their lives. It’s not unheard of that children return as adults (making their educators feel ridiculously old!) to present their children, the next generation of minds to mould.
The importance of retention in services
Retaining educators within childcare services is essential for fostering a sense of continuity and familiarity within the local community. When families rely on the consistent presence of educators who are familiar with their children's needs and personalities, it creates a supportive and nurturing environment. Adding to this, when children are familiar with their educator, it makes for a more pleasant experience at the service. Every child thrives on consistency and continuity and the relationships educators and children develop are second only to those of the family themselves. This continuity helps children feel more comfortable, secure, and engaged in their learning.
Reuniting with educators
Poly Delaveris – Practice Partner, G8 Education shares her experiences within her time and multiple roles throughout her career.
“The relationships you build and nurture in their first five years are so important. Even if the children do not remember, the families certainly do.”
“I crossed paths once with the mother of a little girl I used to teach, and she recalled the conversation I had with her about Natalie’s love of books and my advice to continue reading to her and nurture her love for literacy. Fast forward years down the track, her mum was very proud to share with me that Natalie was able to attend a selective high school and was fulfilling her ambition of attending university to complete her law degree.”
“Another recollection I have is when Lucy, who attended the centre as a child, returned to the centre to complete her school-based traineeship. She stayed at the centre until she completed her diploma and went on to be a Centre Manager and complete her bachelor qualification. She told me she remembered fondly the educators and teachers and the care she received and how much of a strong sense of belonging she had at the centre. The positive impact that early childhood educators and teachers have on the ongoing learning, development, and wellbeing of children is nothing short of incredible.”
It doesn't stop there
Many families return to their former childcare services to share the achievements and milestones of their children with their educators. Or similarly, children themselves return when they’re older to chat to their educators, share their milestone moments or introduce them to their own children. These moments are powerful testaments to the lasting impact educators have on their students.
Joanne recalls moments throughout her life where she has sought, through social media, early learning or early school events, the educators that meant the most to her and her children.
“I remember my kindy teacher fondly and all of the days she guided me through, teaching me some pretty important lessons, particularly how to be less afraid and more social. She even convinced me to take part in the kindy Christmas play - I was an angel that year! I have visited her throughout my adult life because she meant so much to me and as it happened, my now husband was in the same kindy class. She loved seeing pictures of us in that year as well as being introduced to our children all these years later. I think it’s really important to recognise our educators and the impact they have on our lives.”
Image: Joanne | Melton West Kindergarten 1987
Champion these Champions
Join us as we champion our incredible ECEC Educators. We’re giving parents, service owners, and fellow sector professionals the opportunity to highlight their appreciation for the educators in their lives who are having the greatest impact on families, their community, and the sector as a whole.
Saying 'Thank You,' won't solve every challenge faced by these indispensable professionals, yet it goes a long way to show that we see them, we hear them, and we value each and every one of them.
Six deserving educators across the country will win a luxury weekend away and anyone who nominates has the chance to win a $500 VISA gift card.
Get the kids involved!
Show these champions that we all care and get the kids involved in thanking their educators with a downloadable colouring sheet which can be uploaded here for your chance to win a $250 FUNDAY Sweets voucher. Don't forget to present your special educator with their certificate!
