Innholdsfortegnelse for DECEMBER ISSUE 19 2024 i Pedagogy+

Wellness is more than just a concept; it is the foundation upon which thriving learning communities are built. In this edition of Pedagogy Plus, we delve into the multifaceted dimensions of wellness in early childhood education, from the spaces children inhabit to the relationships they form. Wellness begins in the relationships we cultivate—with ourselves, our colleagues, and the children we nurture. As Ann Pelo beautifully stated, ‘Wellbeing is found in the relationships we cultivate—with ourselves, with each other, and with the world around us.’ In these connections, we discover the power of kindness, empathy, and collaboration, which uplift not only our own spirits but those of the children and families we serve. Our articles explore how environments contribute to wellness, highlighting initiatives like Greenspace, where children thrive in expansive, natural…

The wellness of staff in early childhood settings plays a vital role in creating positive, nurturing environments for both educators and children. Leaders hold a unique position to influence workplace culture and foster wellbeing through intentional practices. In reflecting on wellness it is critical to understand that this is achieved through workplace practices as well as individual responsibility. With that in mind, here are practical strategies that leaders can implement to support their teams’ wellbeing. 1. Promote Open Communication: ■ Encourage regular check-ins and feedback loops. ■ Listen to staff concerns and respond with empathy, creating a safe space for honest conversations. Some of the most important conversations to have are the hardest Embrace a mantra of ‘being open’ and allow yourself to be approachable by all staff 2. Create…

Who are we? We are writing each other’s stories as much as we are writing our own. Mackay, 2014, p. 5 In recent years, artificial intelligence has progressed to the point where it is able to process information at a rate of 2.6 billion words in a few hours (Harari, 2024). Meanwhile, we can connect from anywhere, anytime, in a millisecond. Yet, a pervasive sense of social disconnection and loneliness increasingly permeates the lives of individuals of all ages in Western countries (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2015; Naito et al., 2023). This turn to isolation is tragic, as relationships are at the very core of our humanity and evolution. Yuval Noah Harari explains that ‘even though Sapiens were not inherently more intelligent than Neanderthals, a Sapiens network of 500 were far…

In early childhood education, we often speak about love in the context of our work with children—nurturing, supporting and guiding them with compassion. However, we rarely consider the power of love in our relationships with colleagues, teams and leaders. Yet, love—defined as a deep care and respect for one another—can be the essential force that breathes life into the workplace, offering connection and strengthening the fabric of our teams. A Personal Journey with Teams and Leadership Throughout my career, I have observed and experienced many types of relationships in the workplace. Sometimes, finding them confusing or even disheartening. Over time, I came to realise that the perfect ‘model’ leader or team does not exist. Just as each of us is human and imperfect, so too are the relationships we build.…

Play is viewed as a key ingredient for children’s growth and development. Seen as a child’s natural language, play has the capacity to provide children with rich opportunities to explore and process their world in groups or individually. Moving beyond learning and exploration, play can be the precious vehicle that supports children through complex moments in their lives. The theoretical roots of play therapy were planted in the early 1900s (Seymour, 2016). Influential figures such as Anna Freud, Melanie Klein, and Virginia Axeline continued this work by exploring play as a therapeutic model to meet children at their stage of development. What is play therapy? Trained therapists use play to connect with, support and empower children to drive their healing and growth. Due to young children’s age and stage of…

In a world that often glorifies productivity, pausing to prioritise personal wellbeing can be mistakenly viewed as selfish. However, tending to our physical, emotional and mental health is essential for resilience and effectiveness, not only in our professional lives but also in our personal interactions. Wellbeing allows us to be present, adaptable and fully engaged. The capacity to care for others—whether children, family or colleagues—depends on our state of balance. When we ignore our needs, stress builds up, potentially diminishing our ability to provide support. Wellbeing practices, such as connecting with others, maintaining healthy routines, and practising mindfulness, create a stronger community around us. By nurturing ourselves, we establish a more resilient support system for others. Practising wellbeing also involves recognising our limits and building ‘micro-transitions’ between different areas of…

Monique Proud, a proud Aboriginal woman with Koa and Kuku-Yalanji heritage, has worked alongside Aunty Denise Proud and members of the Stolen Generations Committee on a significant project for the Healing Foundation (2017). This initiative involved creating the ‘Healing Country’ artwork for the 20th anniversary of the Bringing Them Home Report, which addressed the impacts of the Stolen Generations. Through her consultancy, Cultural Grounding, Monique works to embed First Nations perspectives across various sectors, honouring her ancestors’ legacies as artists, innovators, and creative thinkers. Monique recently presented at the Semann & Slattery Educational Leader Conference. We thought it appropriate to share the ‘Think Sheet’ from Monique’s presentation. SECTION 1: REFLECTING ON ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS Connection to Country, Community, and Culture Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge…

Confidence makes a massive difference in how we feel. When we believe in ourselves and our abilities, we feel happier, more optimistic, and full of self-worth. Confidence isn’t about being perfect or never making mistakes—it’s about trusting that we can learn, grow and tackle whatever life throws at us. How Confidence Boosts Your Wellbeing 1. Feel-Good Vibes: Confidence can swap stress, anxiety, and overwhelm for happiness and optimism, giving you a real emotional boost 2. Keep Calm Under Pressure: When you trust yourself, you’re less likely to be rattled by challenges, which helps keep stress and anxiety in check 3. Love Yourself More: Confidence gives you a better sense of your worth and abilities, building self-esteem and making you less affected by negativity 4. Take On the World: Confidence encourages…

The Creative Collection provides some underpinning ideas that inform how we come into relationship with creativity. By reimagining teaching through the arts we hope that this framework offers a way to infuse new ideas and perspectives in your context. Threads of Creativity These are a passage to understanding the experience of creativity in this resource, like pathways that reveal insight and learning: • Discovering • Enjoying • Expressing • Thinking • Meaning-making “The Creative Collection busts open habitual ways of seeing materials and their uses, challenging us to step away from the familiar and routine to embrace spacious possibilities. These books are visually stunning; their evocative beauty invites us to pause, to feel the stirrings in our hearts, to hear the whispers of our longings, to imagine and to dream.…

Don’t look at your feet to see if you are doing it properly — just danceAnne Lamott There’s something magical about dance. ‘Dance me to your beauty with a burning violin… Dance me through the panic till I’m gathered safely in’ … Leonard Cohen’s lyrics capture the profound beauty and power of movement. Dance has a unique way of touching us, of taking us somewhere beyond words, where rhythm and body come together in harmony. It’s not just steps and beats—it is a pathway to joy, connection and resilience. In many ways, we are all dancers, moving to the rhythms that shape our lives. Are you a dancer? Most people might laugh and say ‘No’, but even the youngest child instinctively sways when music plays. From infancy, we are drawn…

225g butter, melted320g (2 cups) granulated coconut sugar4 eggs120g (1 cup) cacao powder140g (1 cup) frozen pitted cherries60g (½ cup) almond flour60g (½ cup) tapioca flour½ teaspoon sea salt Preheat the oven to 180C Line a 20cm square cake tin with baking paper Place the melted butter and coconut sugar in a large bowl Whisk until well combined and a lovely caramel colour Whisk in the eggs until incorporated Add the cacao powder, almond flour, tapioca flour and salt Mix well with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until a thick batter forms Pour into the tine, then scatter the cherries on top. Bake for 25-30minutes or until the top is a little crunchy and the middle is still gooey Allow to cool in the tin before slicing Enjoy warm,…

The Happiness Research Institute… Our mission is to inform and enable better decisions for human wellbeing through data-driven research The Happiness Research Institute (HRI), based in Copenhagen, is an independent think tank focused on improving quality of life by exploring what drives human happiness. Traditional measures like GDP fail to capture what truly makes life worthwhile. In response, HRI examines wellbeing to help shape public policies that transform economic growth into meaningful improvements in people’s lives. Drawing on research from psychology, sociology, economics, and other disciplines and through research and partnerships with governments and organisations, HRI investigates factors such as social connections (relationships), community trust, health, work-life balance, autonomy and sense of purpose as contributors to happiness. The Institute explores the complexities of happiness by examining its cognitive, affective, and…

A film that touches the heart has the power to engage, romance, amuse, and, at times, make you cry. Its recipe is a blend of story, cinematography, and musical score. When woven with sensitive characterisation and a plot that resonates, such a film leaves you feeling a sense of equilibrium and calm. Two such movies and favourites of the Semann & Slattery team are ‘Like Water for Chocolate’ and ‘Chocolat’—beautiful films that explore the magic of cooking as a form of love and expression. Each movie invites us into kitchens transformed into spaces of enchantment, where food becomes more than a meal; it is a language of the heart, carrying emotions, memories and connections. Inspired by these cinematic journeys, we considered our kitchens and the possibilities they hold when we,…

Listening is a skill. Active listening, which involves giving our full attention to the speaker, validating their feelings and responding with empathy, helps build trust and emotional resilience. It allows the speaker to feel safe, unjudged and heard. In today’s frenetic world, where our attention is often shared with a device, active or intentional listening has become a rarity. Yet research and expert insights show that active, empathic listening is essential—not just for communication but also for our emotional, mental, and physical well-being. Active listening is a crucial skill for all of us to practice and exceedingly important for us to practice with early learners. It helps to lay the foundation for their emotional, cognitive and social development. When adults listen with full attention, children feel seen and heard, which…

‘Buy less. Choose well. Make it last. Quality, not quantity!’ — Vivienne Westwood Recently, I read an article about fashion icon and activist Vivienne Westwood, and one quote spoke to me: ‘Buy less. Choose well. Make it last. Quality, not quantity!’ OMG, I admit it—I love to shop! A dear friend and I call it ‘going into the zone’, where we can spend entire days exploring the shops, grabbing a nice bite to eat, and immersing ourselves in the joy of finding that perfect item. Shopping can be a delightful escape, a way to connect and indulge…and while lost in a reverie of shopping expeditions, Westwood’s timeless words kept filtering back in…and like the ching-ching of a shop till—for those too young to remember, shop tills (today’s cash register) were…

When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peaceJimi Hendrix COVID-19 was an insidious disease that affected the entire world in 2020-2022 and continues to raise its menacing head across the globe. We will experience the impact of this pandemic for many years into the future, particularly when it comes to children’s emotional and psychological wellbeing. Fortunately for those of us living in the relative peace and prosperity here in Australia, we can access the healthcare resources that can support us in assisting young children and families dealing with the ongoing issues arising from COVID-19. However, in other parts of the world, there is another insidious disease impacting children’s well-being that seems to be spreading ever more rapidly — and it’s called war. Provoked…

We hope you enjoy Pedagogy+ the art of teaching. Each issue of the magazine looks at a theme relevant to early education; exploring and challenging practice and thinking. The pages of Pedagogy+ brim with inspiring articles, candid conversations, the latest trends and lifestyle treats - our brief being to foster critical thinking and stimulate conversations that can advance the theory and practice of padagogy in early education settings, and to encourage you to think about you. Why subscribe? - it’s an opportunity to: ◼ Slow down, relax and enjoy a well-informed read ◼ Share in the insights of highly-respected and knowledgable education experts ◼ Enjoy the experience of deciding - what might i like for me or that would make great gift for someone else ◼ Critically refelct on the…

At the height of laughter the universe is flung into a kaleidoscope of new possibilitiesJean Houston There’s nothing quite like the magic of food to bring people together, and when it starts with little ones, that magic grows even stronger. As the cook in an early childhood program, you’re more than a provider of meals—you’re a guide on their journey to discover a lifelong love of fresh, wholesome food. Healthy eating is more than just meeting nutrition guidelines; it’s about joy, flavour and connection. Here’s how to plant the seeds of healthy eating in a way that will truly stick. Involve Children in Menu Creation Children love being part of the process and involving them in menu planning can turn even the fussiest eaters into curious food adventurers. ■ Celebrate…

‘This incredibly beautiful book sits on my desk. Creating a ritual for inspiration, creativity and encounters with beauty the luminesent art draws you into the story, better still it conjures stories within you…the arresting imagery resonates deeply connecting you to childhood and adulthood—visuals that speak to the wealth found within us—our relationships, our past and present and our hopes for the future…this book is art in its truest form and a breath-taking memorial to the life of a lost friend.’ — Bernadette Dunn ‘A stunning illustrated elegy of life, loss, our search for light, and loneliness as a crucible of creativity. An uncommonly original and tenderhearted celebration of how an artist becomes an artist… Miller set out to honor his friend [Cucco] by bringing his story to life — traveling…

If you loved our EYLF webinars - you’ll love our new book! About the book: The EYLF Play Book has almost everything you want, and need, to know about the new improved Version 2 of the Early Years Learning Framework. Dr Red Ruby Scarlet and Anthony Semann have carefully curated ways of engaging with the EYLF that are inclusive and accessible. In the chapters of this book, they dive into each part of the EYLF to guide and support the diversity of educators required to use the EYLF in their everyday practices. Their approach in this book is to ensure educators feel enthusiastic about learning the new additions, as well as a sense of excitement to put them into practice. Red and Anthony continue to work with educational teams in…

No need to hurry No need to sparkle No need to be anybody but oneselfVirginia Woolf When friends and colleagues are asked about Louise Dorrat, the usual response is, ‘She’s a good woman.’ What does that mean? In her professional life, it speaks to her unwavering commitment to social justice and early childhood education. Louise is interested in people and genuinely invested in fostering curiosity, empathy and resilience in young learners. To her friends, ‘a good woman’ means loyalty, warmth and a sharp sense of humour. Louise’s kindness and laughter are infectious, and her support extends far beyond the classroom, she’s the first to celebrate others’ successes or lend a hand when someone needs it. But there’s more to Louise than meets the eye. Step into one of her workshops,…

Summer is in full swing – it’s time to enjoy the sultry glow of endless sunny days and seductive balmy nights. Summer is all about ice cream at the beach and cool drinks by the pool — enjoying the sand between your toes or the caress of a gentle evening breeze — being out in the world and living your best life! Summer is a fabulous time of year, but before you head out to engage in a world of summer fun, take note of this wellintentioned reminder about summertime self-care… Before soaking up the glorious sunshine – be sun-smart! Slip, slop, slap! ■ Choose from the plethora of funky sunglasses and widebrimmed hats so abundantly available. Use skin protection best suited to your skin type and reapply regularly. Be…

The Australian Government advises that we should: ■ be physically active and follow a healthy eating plan ■ only eat enough nutritious foods and drinks to meet our energy needs. Eat healthily Eat foods mainly from these 5 healthy food groups: ■ different coloured vegetables ■ fruit ■ whole grains ■ lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, nuts, seeds, legumes and beans ■ milk, yoghurt and cheese (with mostly reduced fat) Try to: ■ limit alcohol ■ drink plenty of water ■ cut down on takeaway ■ eat regularly ■ eat healthy snacks ■ choose smaller portions ■ eat breakfast ■ enjoy a wide variety of foods ■ eat plenty of fibre ■ eat more vegetables Be physically active ■ be physically active on most days of the week –…

https://psyche.co/guides/how-to-rest-well-and-enjoy-a-more-creative-sustainable-life Key Points – How to rest well 1. Attitudes to rest have changed: For most of human history, rest was prized as a gift; it’s only recently that busyness has come to be seen as a badge of honour. 2. Rest is important: It allows you to recharge, boosts your creativity, and will benefit your work time. 3. Take rest seriously: To harvest the benefits of rest, you need to begin by recognising its advantages and carving out protected time for it in your schedule. 4. Establish clear boundaries: Cut down on work phone and email checks in the evenings and weekends; take your holidays; and recognise that clear boundaries between work time and personal time make both more effective. 5. Treat rest as a skill: Don’t rush it –…

CONFIDENCE 2025 INSPIRE: AN UPRISING CHALLENGE · ADVOCATE · RESIST EARLY BIRD REGISTRATIONS NOW OPEN + PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER GO TO WWW.INSPIRECONFERENCE.COM.AU 20 - 22 MARCH 2025 ICC Sydney: International Convention & Exhibition Centre Welcome to the forefront of change, where traditional boundaries dissolve, and innovation ignites. The biennial ‘Inspire’ conference beckons, inviting early childhood educators and teachers from across Australia and overseas to embark on a transformative journey like never before. In 2025, we seize the reins of empowerment, rallying under the banner of ‘Inspire: An Uprising’ to challenge the norms, advocate fiercely, and elevate our voices as guardians of education. This conference isn’t just an event; it’s a movement—a clarion call to revolutionise the landscape of early childhood education. 60 WORKSHOPS +…