Sandpit

Multimodal learning includes more than just written text, words and conventional conversation.

By recognising multimodal ways of knowing and learning we support children to develop their own identity instead of pushing our cultural identity and ways of knowing onto the child.

Welcome to the ‘Thriving Futures – Training Academy’.  We are very excited to be part of your introduction to the Early Childhood Education world.  It is a very exciting and rewarding world where you can enjoy watching children grow in body and mind, and celebrate their achievements with them, their families and your co-workers.  

In this course we will provide you with some beginning knowledge to assist you to develop your understanding of what it means to be an early childhood educator, some of the rules and regulations you need to be aware of and get you started with some practical experiences.  The practical component of this course will help you connect the information we provide to the early childhood setting. 

This free course is a taster for beginning a career in early years’ education.  It is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the field before you begin studies in the area.  Although you will not achieve an accreditation at the end of this course, you will be well prepared to begin further study and have a head start for the successful completion of a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. 

The following reflective journal is to be completed during work experience or while taking part in casual work at an early childhood education and care centre.  I will take a period of time and experience to complete and should not be completed in one session only.  It is designed to help you to connect your learning during the online course to your practical learning/work experience/ casual work.  You can print out the journal and complete it by hand or you can complete it online.  If you complete it by hand you can attach as scanned documents/photos.  Please do print the page that asks for feedback and to record you time at the centre.  

You can attach the document and email it to this address, the link will be provided at the end of this course also so that you can make the most of all of the learning to complete the journal.  

academy@childaustralia.org.au

To download the journal as a PDF click here.

Multimodal learning encapsulates learning and thinking beyond written text, words and conventional conversation.

By recognising multimodal ways of knowing and learning we support children to develop their own identity instead of pushing our cultural identity and ways of knowing onto the child.

As adults and educators, our memories of taking part in visual arts experiences may raise a mixture of emotions. This webcast outlines the importance of understanding where children are in their learning journey, but providing knowledge of art stages (0-12years), and how that will influence their experiences with art. It also unpacks the educator's role in engaging with the children during these experiences and encourages educators to learn and create alongside children. 

The course explores the types of child abuse and neglect and the indicators of child abuse and neglect. The primary focus is to identify the role and responsibility of those working in early and middle childhood education and care settings in protecting children’s safety and wellbeing. Topics covered will include the process of identifying children at risk of harm, and the procedures and actions to be taken when a situation is identified. This includes documentation of concerns and disclosures and reporting requirements.

Transitions are part of every child’s day, from drop-off to group time and everything in between. This interactive course explores how to turn everyday changes into meaningful moments of connection. Learn how to reduce stress, strengthen relationships, and support children to navigate transitions with confidence and calm.

Walking your dog has tons of benefits, both for you and your pup! Here are some of the key perks:

1. Physical Exercise

For your dog, walking is great cardio and helps keep them fit, preventing obesity and other health issues. For you, it’s also a good way to stay active!

2. Mental Stimulation

Dogs love exploring new smells and sights during walks. This mental stimulation helps keep their minds sharp and engaged, reducing boredom and anxiety.

3. Bonding Time

Walks are a great opportunity to strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Spending quality time together can deepen your connection.

4. Socialization

If you walk your dog in a neighborhood or park, they get to interact with other dogs and people, which is great for socializing, especially for puppies or dogs that can be more timid.

5. Stress Relief

Both you and your dog can de-stress during walks. The fresh air, the movement, and just being outside can improve your mood and reduce stress levels.

6. Behavior Improvement

Regular walks can help reduce hyperactive behavior and barking. A tired dog is often a well-behaved dog!

7. Better Sleep

Dogs (and humans!) who get regular exercise tend to sleep better at night. After a good walk, your dog will be more likely to settle down and rest.

8. Improved Digestive Health

For dogs, regular walking helps with digestion and can prevent constipation. It also supports regular bathroom habits!

9. Exploration & Fun

For both of you, walks are an adventure! You can explore different routes, parks, or trails, and your dog will enjoy the variety of new sights and smells.

How often do you take your dog for walks?

Explore and discuss why supervision is so critically important in education and care settings.

What is supervision? Supervision is everyone’s responsibility and should reflect educators who are focused and consciously in the moment.

There should be clear communication and shared understanding between not only educators but children as well. It’s about educators supporting learning and assisting children to develop risk assessment skills.

Note: This course was updated and was previously known as Supervision Essentials.

Certificate of Competence awarded on completion of the course.

Walking your dog has tons of benefits, both for you and your pup! Here are some of the key perks:

1. Physical Exercise

For your dog, walking is great cardio and helps keep them fit, preventing obesity and other health issues. For you, it’s also a good way to stay active!

2. Mental Stimulation

Dogs love exploring new smells and sights during walks. This mental stimulation helps keep their minds sharp and engaged, reducing boredom and anxiety.

3. Bonding Time

Walks are a great opportunity to strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Spending quality time together can deepen your connection.

4. Socialization

If you walk your dog in a neighborhood or park, they get to interact with other dogs and people, which is great for socializing, especially for puppies or dogs that can be more timid.

5. Stress Relief

Both you and your dog can de-stress during walks. The fresh air, the movement, and just being outside can improve your mood and reduce stress levels.

6. Behavior Improvement

Regular walks can help reduce hyperactive behavior and barking. A tired dog is often a well-behaved dog!

7. Better Sleep

Dogs (and humans!) who get regular exercise tend to sleep better at night. After a good walk, your dog will be more likely to settle down and rest.

8. Improved Digestive Health

For dogs, regular walking helps with digestion and can prevent constipation. It also supports regular bathroom habits!

9. Exploration & Fun

For both of you, walks are an adventure! You can explore different routes, parks, or trails, and your dog will enjoy the variety of new sights and smells.

How often do you take your dog for walks?