What we believe about children and learning...
The following beliefs guide the content, reflections and resources shared throughout Spaces and Places... Early Childhood.
1. Children as capable and competent learners
At the heart of this site is a belief that children are capable, competent and active participants in their own learning. Children learn best when they feel trusted, listened to and genuinely valued, and when they are given opportunities to make choices, contribute, explore and express themselves in meaningful ways.
2. The importance of dispositions rather than isolated skills
The dispositions children develop through everyday experiences are an important part of lifelong learning. Qualities such as curiosity, confidence, resilience and empathy develop gradually through relationships, play, participation and the many experiences children encounter each day.
3. Play as the context for learning
Play is children's natural way of learning, making sense of the world and building relationships. Through play, children explore ideas, solve problems, test theories, communicate, create and develop an understanding of themselves and others.
4. Supporting adults to create environments and relationships
Rather than asking "How do we change the child?", this site encourages adults to consider, "What conditions can we create that allow children to thrive?" By thoughtfully shaping the places children grow within and nurturing the relationships that surround them, we can create the conditions that support learning, wellbeing, belonging and positive dispositions from the very beginning.
5. Partnership between home and early learning settings
Children move between many different spaces and places throughout their lives. When families and educators work together, children experience greater consistency, connection and a shared understanding that supports their wellbeing, learning and sense of belonging.
6. Everyday moments matter
Many of the most significant learning opportunities occur within ordinary everyday moments - a conversation at the dinner table, a shared story, moving from one place to another, a comforting presence or a thoughtfully prepared environment. These everyday experiences help shape how children see themselves and the world around them.
Helping adults create the spaces and places where children naturally develop the dispositions for learning and life.
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