We follow your child’s lead and gently guide their next steps.
At Dubbo Early Learning Centre, we take great care in how we respond to children. Every action we take is thoughtful, purposeful, and focused on helping your child grow, explore, and feel confident. We notice what your child is interested in, and we use that to build learning in ways that are meaningful, fun, and personal.
We observe and respond in real time
Our educators pay close attention to what your child is doing and thinking. Instead of jumping in with answers, we ask open-ended questions like, “What do you notice about that?” or “What else could you try?” These simple moments help your child become more independent, creative, and resilient.
We also introduce new words during play to expand vocabulary. For example, if a child says “the water is going fast,” we might respond, “Yes, it’s rushing downstream! What do you think is making it move so quickly?”
We plan based on what children show us
Our learning program is flexible and grows from children’s interests. If a group of children is exploring how to balance blocks, we might bring in ramps, books about bridges, or recycled boxes for building. If a child starts comparing the size of lunch containers, we add scales, measuring tapes, and support their thinking through fun measuring games. Everything is connected to real curiosity.
We set up environments with purpose
The rooms and outdoor areas are arranged to invite exploration and learning. We rotate materials to match what children are interested in. Loose parts, labelled spaces, natural elements, and quiet corners all encourage children to explore at their own pace. Every part of the space is set up with care to support independent play, problem-solving, and discovery.
We teach social and emotional skills every day
Our educators support children as they learn to manage emotions, express their needs, and solve problems with friends. We model calm voices, encourage turn-taking, and help children find their own solutions. For example, we might ask, “What do you think would be fair for both of you?” or “What can we try next time to make it easier?”
We connect learning to home and culture
Families are at the heart of our program. When you share your traditions, recipes, songs, or family celebrations with us, we build those into daily experiences. Children might explore a cultural dish through cooking, hear their home language in a storybook, or proudly show their friends a traditional item from home. It’s all about helping children feel known, valued, and connected.
We use our local community as a classroom
We regularly step outside the gate and bring the real world into our learning. Children might visit the local café and role-play being baristas, visit the fire station after showing interest in firefighters, explore birds and plants in our local bushland, or plant vegetables at the community garden. These rich experiences connect children to the world around them and help them learn in real, hands-on ways.
Responsive teaching at Dubbo means every child is seen, supported, and challenged in ways that matter to them. It’s thoughtful, flexible, and always focused on helping your child learn and grow.