Early Childhood Educators’ Day (September 6) celebrates the work of Australia’s educators in early learning services - long day care, family day care, kindergarten/preschools and occasional care - and recognises their wonderful contribution to the wellbeing and healthy development of the young children in their care.
Shining a light on the long-term benefits of early learning is also an important part of this national community event, which has “Planting the seeds for a better future” as its 2023 theme.
“This day is important to recognise the work of Early Childhood Educators and how they make a difference to the lives of young people and their families,” says Kirsty Daley, from our NDIS Early Childhood Approach (ECA) team.
Kirsty joined The Benevolent Society in 2022 and has worked as an early childhood educator for 18 years in various roles across the sector. As a Child Development Specialist, she supports programs focused on the educational, social and emotional development of children (0-8) and families.
“I love working with children; they are always surprising you with the things they say and do,” Kirsty says. “It’s easy to have a good day when you are surrounded by smiling, happy children. I also find supporting families very rewarding; this leads to the best outcomes for their children.”
Pictured above is Kirsty smiling
Every Day is a Good Day
Early Childhood Educators play a vital role in the lives of young children in laying the foundation for children’s future learning, development and well-being.
No two days are ever the same for an Early Childhood Educator. “The best three parts of my day are working with an amazing team of inspiring people, working alongside families and children, and knowing that every day is different and exciting when you work in the community space,” Kirsty adds.
Every Child Needs a Fair Go
It’s also National Child Protection Week (September 3-9), which aims to promote a safe and supported life for every child, now and into the future.
The overarching message is ‘Every child in every community needs a fair go’, which ties in with Kirsty’s passion for early childhood inclusion.
“When true inclusion is achieved, all children across all settings will have their needs met and improved outcomes for their futures,” she says. “This is especially important for the families of children with a disability. It is also important for people without a disability to share spaces with a diverse community to achieve true inclusion and acceptance.
“Regardless of background or situation, every child has the right to receive what they need to succeed and thrive.”
This year’s National Child Protection Week theme is ‘Where we start matters:’ where we start as a service sector in offering children and their families support and assistance, and as decision makers addressing complex policy problems such as child abuse and neglect. |
What is the ECA and how is it funded?
The Early Childhood Approach (ECA) program is a national program supporting children aged 0-6 who have a developmental delay or disability and their families, funded through The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
The Benevolent Society is the NDIS Partner in the Community, delivering ECA services in the regions of South East Queensland: Logan City, Redland City, Brisbane City and Moreton Bay Regional Council areas.
“Families will approach us and discuss how we can help them access the NDIS to get more support for their child,” Kirsty says. “They are often very thankful for the support to access and understand the NDIS, this can often be overwhelming when families are first starting out.”
If you reside in these regions, you can access the program by calling 1300 003 234. For anyone else, you can find additional information on NDIS Partners in the community in your area on the NDIS website.