Inspiring Young Minds Through Play-Based Learning in Dubbo

The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF)

The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) is Australia’s national framework for early childhood education. Centred around the principles of ‘Belonging, Being, and Becoming,’ the EYLF provides a holistic approach to learning that supports children’s development, identity, and sense of place in the world. The framework is structured around key outcomes, principles, and practices, which guide our educators in planning and documenting meaningful experiences for each child.

Our Role as Educators

At Stepping Stones Early Learning Centre Dubbo, we see children as naturally curious learners who have an innate desire to explore the world around them. As educators, our role is to observe their play, reflect on their interests, and guide them in discovering answers, rather than simply providing solutions. We work as co-learners alongside the children, fostering their creativity, problem-solving skills, and independence.

Our curriculum is flexible and child-led, allowing us to adapt to the children’s evolving interests. While we may plan experiences based on their emerging ideas, we are always ready to modify or abandon these plans to better align with their learning journey.

The Image of the Child

The way we perceive children influences the way we educate them. We believe that children:

• Are capable of assessing risk.
• Are naturally curious and experimental.
• Can share ideas and collaborate with others.
• Thrive through open-ended play and flexible routines.
• Learn best in environments that foster exploration and self-discovery.
  

Our child-led emergent curriculum is designed to cater to each child’s individual strengths, interests, and learning styles. Instead of imposing rigid structures, we create opportunities for children to engage in meaningful learning experiences at their own pace.

Emergent Curriculum and Learning Outcomes

At Stepping Stones, our curriculum is based on the principles of emergent learning. This means that our educational approach evolves based on children’s interests and developmental needs. While our curriculum is flexible, the underlying outcomes remain consistent. These outcomes are derived from the EYLF and focus on five key areas:

• Children have a strong sense of identity.
• Children are connected with and contribute to their world.
• Children have a strong sense of well-being.
• Children are confident and involved learners.
• Children are effective communicators.
  

Participation in Learning

Children learn best through interaction and collaboration. Our approach encourages active participation rather than passive learning. Instead of dictating interactions and pre-determining activities, we create environments where children are free to explore, ask questions, and express their ideas. This collaborative approach allows children to build confidence, social skills, and critical thinking abilities while engaging in play-based learning.

The Environment as the Third Teacher

We believe that the environment plays a crucial role in children’s learning. A thoughtfully designed space fosters curiosity, creativity, and independence. Our learning environments are:

• Rich in natural elements, textures, and materials.
• Designed to inspire exploration and discovery.
• Carefully arranged to provide developmental challenges and promote problem-solving.
• Stimulating yet not overwhelming, allowing children to focus on their play and learning.
  

When children are in an environment that supports their curiosity, structured activities become secondary, and self-guided learning takes centre stage.

8 Ways of Aboriginal Learning Pedagogy

The 8 Ways of Aboriginal Learning Framework is integral to our curriculum, ensuring that Aboriginal perspectives are woven into every aspect. Through methods such as Story Sharing, Community Links, Deconstruct/Reconstruct, Non-Linear, Land Links, Symbols and Images, Non-Verbal, and Learning Maps, we create a rich educational experience. Our approach fosters connections with country and culture and provides children with an inclusive and culturally safe environment. By embracing this pedagogy, we empower students to engage meaningfully with their heritage and community.

Principles

At Stepping Stones we are inspired by the Bush Kindy and Forest School approach. The six main principles we base our curriculum on are:

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• Child-Led

• Respect

• Risk- Management

• Open-Ended Learning

• Social Development

• Literacy

Making Learning Visible

At Stepping Stones, we ensure that every child’s learning journey is made visible. Through careful observation and documentation, we highlight the deeper learning that occurs through play. For example:

• A child rolling cars down a ramp is exploring physics concepts like gravity and motion.
• A child mixing paint is engaging with colour theory, texture, and creative expression.
  

Our reflections and observations are documented as Learning Stories, which are shared through Storypark and Room Displays. These records serve as both a way to track each child’s progress and a tool for planning future experiences that align with their interests and developmental milestones.

By embracing an emergent, child-led curriculum, Stepping Stones Early Learning Centre Dubbo fosters a love for learning that will stay with children well beyond their early years.

Our curriculum nurtures confidence, creativity, and a love for learning. Call (02) 6885 3400 to find out how we support your child’s journey!