Early Childhood Australia in Darwin, Northern Territory | Non-governmental organisation (NGO)

Early Childhood Australia

Locality: Darwin, Northern Territory

Phone: +61 8 8986 7142

Address: 3/10 Mel Road, Berrimah 0828 Darwin, NT, Australia

Website: https://ecant.org.au/

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25.01.2022 To celebrate NAIDOC week Arnhem Northern and Kimberley Artists (ANKA) are showcasing a virtual exhibition from a selection of ANKAs Supported Art Centres. https://bit.ly/3ky43kA

24.01.2022 Check out our next Educator Well-Being Session! See details below

24.01.2022 The Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE) will be conducting a survey of services from 31 July to 5 August 2020. This survey will help the Department understand whether the current transition arrangements are working to: Help services remain open and viable so that skilled staff can be retained in the industry. Support families to access the care they need to return to work. Enable vulnerable, disadvantaged or families impacted by COVID-19 access to ...affordable early education and care. If your service has not received the survey by 3 pm Friday 31 July, contact ORIMA at [email protected]. See more

23.01.2022 https://www.naidoc.org.au/get-involved/naidoc-week-events There are still some fantastic events on around the Territory to celebrate NAIDOC week...

23.01.2022 We cannot control the dynamics of childrens home lives, but we are in a position of great influence. Mel Angel explores the impact COVID-19 has had on domest...ic violence and shares resources to support educators thinking when critically reflecting on the role you play in childrens lives. See more

23.01.2022 What do you think of this short film on playground inclusion? The film is inspired by a boy called Ian who has cerebral palsy, and sets out to show that childre...n with disabilities can and should be included. Ian's Mother says ‘the film is an opportunity for all societyto break down barriers, walls, and free us from prejudicesIt’s crafted to guide [all children] to acquire concrete tools to be people of solidarity.’

23.01.2022 Early Learning Matters Week is next week (3-7 August) and it is a great time to highlight the importance of early learning. But in these times, Anne Kennedy explores what early learning means for children who are experiencing the hardships and disruptions associated with the pandemic.

22.01.2022 Have you been to one of our Gym for growth and development (g4gd) sessions at the Darwin Waterfront? It's a chance to connect with other families, enjoy time with your children and give them opportunities to enhance development through dancing, exercise, song and movement. The sessions are popular and are facilitated by early childhood teachers. We would love to see you on Monday mornings at 9:30am. Click here to register: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/gym-for-growth-and-developm

22.01.2022 Join us for a Cup filling day of Professional Development with Phoenix Cups https://lnkd.in/giMnvGY

22.01.2022 'Kids don't want your power. They want their own.'Richard Lavoie A good reminder in this creative #SelfReg graphic from Kristin Wiens. (Image via The MEHRIT Centre, Ltd.)

22.01.2022 I See What You Mean! Exploring the use of visuals in ECEC services Our daily adult lives are filled with visual support systems. We use Apps on mobile phones, computers and tablets and we navigate traffic by following road signs and traffic lights. Visual supports are universal and cross-linguistic. Visual strategies and tools are not only used for people with disabilities, but are part of our everyday lives. It is how we make sense of complex information using models.... How can we extend this concept into our ECEC services? There are many reasons to consider using visual tools in Early Learning settings. One of the most compelling ones is, that visual tools do not disappear. Information provided verbally can begin and end before your child has had a chance to understand it, let alone begin to act on it. The information a visual tool provides is available to the child until they have had a chance to process its message and is able to take action. Contextual learning involves making concepts and ideas relevant to young children by placing them within a context. Visual schedules for example, display planned activities in symbols (words, pictures, photograph, icons, and actual objects) that are understood in the order in which they will occur such as a daily routine or a sequence of actions necessary to complete a task. They can be referred back to until the information is memorised and actions become ingrained. Just because a child can talk, does not mean they always understand! Children that have difficulties with Communication (verbal/non-verbal, difficulty understanding oral language), planning and sequencing, transitioning between activities and regulating emotions will especially benefit from visual supports. Visual tools create familiarity and predictability in their lives and can drastically reduce anxiety and challenging behaviours. ECA NT runs workshops for Educators on how to use visual tools in our urban and remote services, ask your friendly Inclusion Professional in Alice Springs, Katherine and Darwin if you would like to upskill your team. Photos: Educators of Yuelamu Early Learning Centre putting together a daily schedule

21.01.2022 Educators from Mpweringke Anapipe in Central Australia have been incorporating mindfulness and calming activities into their Early Years sessions this term. Chi...ldren are encouraged to rest their utenge (spirit) by taking the opportunity to lie down, calm their nervous systems and listen to the sounds around them while on Country. We heard the nyingke (zebra finch) flying from tree to tree and the ayerre (wind) blowing in from the north. It was mwerre (good) for the little ones to just lay still and rest, said one Senior Arrernte Educator. At Children's Ground, First Nations children and families are supported to engage in healthy activities that promote positive social and emotional wellbeing creating safe, strong and happy communities.

21.01.2022 ECA NT staff held a Bush Tucker Inspired Morning Tea this morning to celebrate NAIDOC Week. #NAIDOCWeek2020

20.01.2022 Free nature play sessions designed for children aged 1 - 5 years. These sessions encourage children to become more aware of the world around them and help them ...understand where their food comes from. They will inspire young minds, encourage healthy eating and will be lots of fun! Bookings essential: www.eventbrite.com.au/o/city-of-palmerston-17886074194 Children must be supervised by an adult at all times. Healthy snacks are provided. Please ensure to adhere to all social distancing requirements and wash your hands or use hand sanitiser regularly.

20.01.2022 The second session of our 'Let's Talk About Schooling Options' is happening tonight. Please see details below.

20.01.2022 Today we celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Science and gender equality are both vital to achieve the United Nations SDGs. STEM Punks is... making an effort to inspire more girls into Science and STEM fields. We support girls digital literacy in Ghana, we're launching scholarships for girls in STEM, and our next Future Learning Magazine will feature prominent Women in STEM from all over the world. To Women and Girls in Science everywhere - we salute you! See more

20.01.2022 School of fish: how we involved Indigenous students in our investigation of a 65,000-year-old site. What a great story: https://theconversation.com/school-of-fish-how-we-involved-

19.01.2022 we have been left behind and we are not valued. It has taken a mental toll on myself, and I know it has for my colleagues. ABC News shines a light on the emotional and financial toll COVID-19 has had on early childhood educators in Victoria.

18.01.2022 Today is International Indigenous Literacy Day hosted by The Indigenous Literacy Foundation. Books like Clever Crow, which feature both English and Djambarrpuynu, support the longevity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages. Browse all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander books on the ECA Shop here: bit.ly/2EU8mY8

18.01.2022 Did you know that the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) are reviewing the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) approach? ECA NT are the Partner's in the Community for the Darwin Urban region, however these important updates are for all children Australia wide. Have your say and give your feedback on what you think the future of early intervention should look like. The NDIA are holding a webinar on January 15th from 1:30pm to 3:30pm (corrected Darwin time) to present the overview of changes. You can also find links to the consultation papers too below in the first comment. https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ndis-have-your-say-nt-consu

18.01.2022 In their shoes: a free ebook from Anne Stonehouse AM that prompts us to see things from children's perspectives. This scenario talks about slowing down and taking time for the small things.

17.01.2022 It's National Recycling Week. As educators, we are so good at seeing the potential for play in everyday objects. When those resources are looking a little worse for wear, it's important to recycle them. Learn more: bit.ly/2GGsXQW or get inspiration to be more sustainable with ECA resources: bit.ly/2Il1rc1

17.01.2022 AITSL is seeking views on how teachers and leaders in schools can be supported to enhance their Indigenous cultural competency. See AITSL discussion paper Indigenous cultural competency in the Australian teaching workforce. Submissions close 30 November. More info here: bit.ly/3pAqk4E

17.01.2022 ECA is proud to support Early Childhood Educators, today and every day. The work you do is critical and important to Australias future prosperity; you deserve recognition. We support improving wages and conditions, a nationally consistent approach to registration, the importance of qualifications and access to ongoing professional development. We will continue to pursue these goals through our advocacy as it is in the interest of young children to have a stable, competent and highly motivated profession working in early childhood services and schools.

17.01.2022 Good news! Tomorrow at our g4gd session at Gateway we have opened up 5 more spaces as we are now in a bigger area. So.... if you missed out on a ticket you have a chance to grab one for tomorrow's session at 10:00am. We will be in the old Jeanswest shop. To register please make sure you are a Mum's and Bubs and Tots member: https://gatewaynt.com.au/mums-bubs-tots/ and register for tickets here: https://gatewaynt.com.au/mums-bubs/g4gd/ Looking forward to seeing you!

16.01.2022 Swoosh, Glide and Rule Number 5 make it easy to talk to children about online safety this Safer Internet Day. Download this picture book from the e-Safety Commi...ssioner onto your tablet to share with children in your service. You can also access free learning modules from the e-Safety Commissioner and ECA here: bit.ly/3rA7hrE See more

16.01.2022 Check out this Early Days parent workshop happening this Thursday run by Autism QLD and Autism SA at FaFT. It’s free to attend and the topic is on Developing Independence Sleep, Eating and Toileting etc. Please see more details below.

16.01.2022 A great illustration for us all to remember.

16.01.2022 Our next Educator Well-being Session is coming up soon! ECA NT together with Kids-Fit would love you to join us for a wellness session designed to teach you simple self-care tips that you can use at work and at home to ensure your cup is full as well as help children in your care. Expect to move, learn simple mindfulness techniques and meet other educators.... Wednesday 14th April at 6:15pm at CDU - Casuarina Blue 1.1.54. Cost $5 Please register at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/educator-wellbeing-session-

15.01.2022 The Governor-General of Australia, His Excellency General the Hon David Hurley AC DSC, and Mrs Hurley share a message highlighting the importance of Early Learning Matters Week and early education. Watch the short video here: bit.ly/39A2r5Q #EarlyLearningMattersWeek Early Learning Matters Week 2020

15.01.2022 Join us for a Cup filling day of Professional Development with Phoenix Cups

15.01.2022 When we observe a young child's behaviour, we don't always stop to consider the underlying factors. By acting as 'stress detectives' in children's lives, educators and families can help identify and reduce stressors and teach children the skills they need to respond. (Image via The MEHRIT Centre, Ltd.)

15.01.2022 RDA is a fantastic organisation supporting people with disabilities. Join them on their open day.

14.01.2022 Did you celebrate Early Childhood Educators Day? Australia says thank you...

13.01.2022 Starting formal schooling is a significant life event for children and families. In 2021 schools will be receiving young children who have had significant life events in their year prior to school and will need to take extra steps and give special consideration of the impact of these events as they prepare to welcome children starting school in 2021. Early Learning Services will also need to consider different strategies to support children as they prepare for school.

12.01.2022 Michelle Carrick, an early childhood teacher, often observes a ‘one-dimensional view of education (outside the early childhood sector), where ideals of success ...are linked to academic achievement and play is misunderstood as frivolous.’You can hear more on this from Michelle's presentation at the ECA National Conference 2021. bit.ly/2WxKAXA See more

11.01.2022 Fantastic news for the families of Berry Spring

11.01.2022 A simple exercise such as finger breathing can support children to focus, manage feelings and bring a sense of calm. Download the latest issue of Embrace from ...the Victorian Inclusion Agency. This edition features articles promoting childrens sense of belonging, powerful strategies to help children manage their feelings, and a free poster with 19 positive affirmations to support children during tough times. Download here: bit.ly/GetEmbraceWinter2020 See more

11.01.2022 We started from [thinking about] equality, to equity, to inclusion, and that wasnt enough. Were rewriting parent and educator handbooks. You cant do too muc...h; you have to go slowly.Cath Gillespie Early Childhood Australia recently had a first row seat to the online 2020 Anti-Bias Awards. The award, now in its fourth year, was created in partnership with MultiVerse, Social Justice In Early Childhood, and Early Childhood Australia.

11.01.2022 It's crucial for everyone to take time out to regain mental strength. Do something from this list for you today. And remember this is important for men too, Mensline Australia have resources available for men's wellbeing, read more: bit.ly/33Cn1l4 #SelfCareSunday (Image via Journey to Wellness)

10.01.2022 Need a mental health break? Think about the time you have, what you want to see, feel, hear, taste, or smell. Then do it! Central Psychology

10.01.2022 Put mental health and wellbeing at the centre of family day care practice. Join with other family day care service coordinators, managers and leaders to increase awareness of mental health. This practical online event, developed by Be You, will strengthen links between mental health and Quality Improvement Plans, explore service context and assist family day care services to create mentally healthy communities. Book your spot here: bit.ly/3a16ZCD

10.01.2022 Tomorrow at 10:00am is the last session of g4gd at Gateway for Term 1. We will continue with our theme of music and development. Get ready to make some noise! Join us tomorrow; all you need to do is become a member of Gateway's mums bubs & tots club https://gatewaynt.com.au/mums-bubs-tots/ and then book through Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/gateway-mumsbubtots-gym-4-g We would love to see you!

10.01.2022 ‘Breathing is a powerful tool that educators can use not only for themselves but also to support children to become emotionally aware.’excerpt from ‘The mindful educator’ blog on The Spoke. Read more: bit.ly/3jz6sLb (Image via WholeHearted School Counseling) #mindfulness #breathing #educator

09.01.2022 It's National Science Week! To celebrate, the team at National Science Week will be sharing ideas and resources to inspire deep learning about science and STEM. Get started with 'DIY Science' ideas and discover everyday science in your early learning service or home: bit.ly/3ivg89o

09.01.2022 Our next Educator Well-Being Session is coming up in two weeks! We're joining up with Kids-Fit to teach you simple self-care tips to use at work and at home. At only $5 for this one-off session it is one not to be missed! Come and learn something new, have fun and connect with people in your industry. Book your spot here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/eduator-wellbeing-session-w

09.01.2022 Does your child have an NDIS plan and would you like some more information about this? We have two "Let's Talk About Sessions" coming up this Wednesday. Please see details on the attached flyer.

09.01.2022 Fostering girls' interest in STEM and STEAM is vital for the future. On this International Day for Women and Girls in Science, ECA has some ideas of ways you can encourage girls' confidence in their STEM and STEAM capabilities.

09.01.2022 Connecting with ECAs Ethics in Action will give you the opportunity to consider the possibilities of what ethical practice might look like in the future and revisit the important aspects of ethics in your daily practice. Join Catharine Hydon, Dr Lenny Barblett and Dr Anne Kennedy on Friday 21 August to explore the Code of Ethics further. Book here: bit.ly/3ildIKz

08.01.2022 'When children feel included, they are more likely to be accepting of others and sensitive to their needs, and they feel safer and more secure.'Be You, read more: bit.ly/3pgmKwm Yesterday was World Kindness Day! We encourage you to do a random act of kindness today.

07.01.2022 'Improving early learning in remote Australia demands national attention and leadership.' Click here to read our latest media release: bit.ly/3pxMggR #ozearlyed #ECEC

07.01.2022 The Childrens Book Council of Australia short list of 2020 is out! Two of the short listed books that are in the running for the Eve Pownall Award have been quality approved and are available in the ECA Shop - 'William: A Birrarung Story' bit.ly/3iVho60 and Young Dark Emu: A Truer History bit.ly/2FIXUTX

07.01.2022 Great fine motor and hand control skills here...

07.01.2022 Next Monday (March 29) is our last g4gd session at the Gray Family Centre for Term 1. There will be games, songs and activities to promote development with your children. Morning tea will be provided afterwards. Come and join us for an egg-cellent time!

07.01.2022 Creating awareness of perinatal anxiety and depression is extremely important all year round. With many expecting and new parents struggling due to COVID-19 and associated restrictions, it’s critical that we work together to support families facing mental health challenges. Visit the PANDA website to find out more. #tellsomeonewhocares

06.01.2022 There are still tickets available for tomorrow's g4gd session at Gateway Shopping Centre at 10:00am. Come and spend some quality time with your children while we play, sing, dance and move all in airconditioned bliss. Sessions are run by qualified teachers. We look forward to seeing you https://gatewaynt.com.au/mums-bubs/g4gd/

05.01.2022 UOW Early Start Discovery Space invite you to attend their upcoming free webinar: Supporting Children, Families & Communities in times of Crisis. Calling all educators, academics, policy makers and parents! This webinar is NESA registered for professional development.

05.01.2022 Have you got your ticket for tomorrow's g4gd session at Gateway Shopping Centre? This is our last session at Gateway for this term and we have a new home! We will be set up tomorrow at Adventure Land in the sectioned off part in the middle. You won't need to pay to get into Adventure Land if you are attending g4gd but you will if you intend on staying there later. Come and enjoy a session with your children focusing on music and development. Remember you need to be a registered Mums Bubs & Tots member. You can book here: https://gatewaynt.com.au/mums-bubs/g4gd/

04.01.2022 Have you heard about Innovative Solutions funding available for Early Learning Centres and Outside School Hours Care programs? Here you can see the children of Wunala Creche in Borroloola singing a traditional Aboriginal song and using clap sticks that they've made with Clara, a local elder and artist. Clara has been engaged to come into the centre for seven sessions to share her knowledge with children and educators. For example, they are making bush tucker jam, soap from bush medicine and shark tooth necklaces. Does your service need support from an Aboriginal worker to support educators in implrementing culturally appropriate strategies and practices in the care environment? Contact your Inclusion Professional at ECA-NT: 1800 959 995 for more information.

04.01.2022 Are you interested in exploring some strategies which could help you and your family thrive through the wet season holidays? There are two Let's Talk About sessions coming up on Monday at Coolalinga and Palmerston run by Early Childhood Specialists. We would love to see you. Please see the details below:

04.01.2022 Inspire children to get involved with National Tree Day and embrace the environment around themFriday 31 July. Click here to find out what you can do in your early learning setting: https://treeday.planetark.org/get-involved/schools #HugaTreeforNTD

02.01.2022 'Educator wellbeing should be a career-long focus. This requires you to be alert and constantly ‘checking in’ to ensure that you are taking care of your own needs first. To ensure that we have a workforce that reflects wellbeing, it requires each early childhood educator to have their own strategic plan.' Read more on The Spoke: bit.ly/37fWGdX

02.01.2022 My Inclusion ABC's' incorporates a different strategyinclusion and belongingas well as a positive learning experience for children. (Image via MindShift)

02.01.2022 ECA'S next Members' and Friends' Network Meeting is this Thursday night, August 20th where you can come and meet Joy Elford who will present an introduction to Marte Meo, an approach developed by Maria Aarts in the Netherlands, which focuses on the importance of communication in the building of relationships and emotional connections. It is the the how to of attachment. See details below:

01.01.2022 Did you know that this week is World Nursery Rhyme Week? You can check out these pages for some fantastic free resources! https://www.worldnurseryrhymeweek.com/ https://www.facebook.com/WorldNurseryRhymeWeek/posts/3355024151260996... There is still time to register and access all of the free resources! https://www.worldnurseryrhymeweek.com/

01.01.2022 We love the positive impact that the Early Childhood, Early Intervention (ECEI) approach makes for children. Check out Aviana's story which highlights the amazing progress she has made through her own determination and early intervention therapies through the NDIS. https://www.ndis.gov.au//5761-aviana-dancing-and-playing-b

01.01.2022 ACECQA has released an information sheet about new national regulations for transporting children safely. New requirements for education and care services in all states and territories start on 1 October 2020 and are designed to address the additional risks that services must manage when transporting children. Click here to view the information sheet: bit.ly/2E0LaY0