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Learning and Play

At Dubbo Early Learning Centre, we follow the Early Years Learning Framework to guide our program. This means your child’s learning is always connected to real experiences, interests, and relationships. We plan carefully, reflect regularly, and communicate openly—so you know what your child is doing, why it matters, and how you can be involved.

1. Our Learning Program is based on your child’s identity, strengths, and interests. We use the Early Years Learning Framework to plan experiences that help your child feel confident, curious, connected, and capable. You’ll see your child learning through play, exploring language, building friendships, and growing in independence.

2. Child-Centred Learning means we build the program around each child. We observe what your child enjoys, where they’re growing, and what makes them light up. If your child is interested in cooking, building, bugs, or books—we use that interest as a doorway into learning. Families are encouraged to share what’s happening at home so we can reflect that at the centre.

3. Learning Happens All Day—not just during activities. Routines like mealtimes, transitions, and rest periods are planned with purpose. We make every moment count by adding songs, storytelling, conversations, and choice-making into daily routines. These small but meaningful moments help children feel capable, safe, and connected.

4. Purposeful Teaching means we don’t leave learning to chance. Educators ask open-ended questions, set up thoughtful environments, and use each interaction to build on what your child already knows. Whether it’s a science experiment, block tower, or a storybook, we’re thinking about how to extend your child’s skills, ideas, and thinking.

5. Responsive Teaching is about noticing and acting in the moment. When your child tries something new or struggles with a challenge, our educators support them with care and intention. We guide them with feedback, model social skills, and offer new materials or questions to deepen the experience—all while making sure each child feels heard and supported.

6. Child-Directed Learning gives your child the power to make decisions. Children help plan activities, choose how they spend their time, and even lead parts of the program. We encourage children to follow their ideas, collaborate with peers, and take safe risks. Educators support their agency while ensuring everyone is included.

7. The Planning Cycle helps us stay thoughtful and organised. We observe, document, plan, implement, and reflect on each child’s learning. You’ll see this in our learning stories, displays, and digital updates. Family feedback is welcomed and included in our reflections—your voice helps shape what happens next.

8. Critical Reflection is how we improve. Our team meets regularly to reflect on what’s working and what can be better. We ask questions like, “Are all children included?”, “How did this experience support learning?”, or “What feedback have families given?” These conversations lead to changes in the program, routines, and even the layout of rooms.

9. Information for Families is shared in ways that suit your needs. Whether you prefer digital updates, quick chats, printed notes, or phone calls—we’ll work with you. We reflect your culture, language, and home routines in our documentation. You’ll see your child’s learning come to life through photos, captions, quotes, and stories that make it easy to understand and feel part of.