Educator and school aged children planting and digging in a garden bed

Question: As a single-educator OSHC coordinator with limited time and a small group of children, how can I keep programs vibrant and responsive with fewer children’s interests to springboard from, and no immediate colleagues to bounce ideas off?

Answer: Listen to families, lean on your peers, and utilise existing resources.

Children hugging happy educator at a table in a classroom setting

Question: In light of the new Child Safe Standards, is showing physical affection towards children still appropriate in services?

Answer: Physical affection is appropriate when children are empowered to communicate their consent.

Educator helping a child put on a super hero mask

Question: Is superhero play really OK? Sometimes it can be rough and the costumes can cause problems with toileting and overheating.

Answer: Yes, let’s support superhero play!

Child sitting with elbows on the table and head in hands with a discouraged expression

Question: Is it wrong to use time-outs? What can we do instead?

Answer: Try a time-in.

Joyful child with head titled to the sky with eyes closed

Question: How do I highlight children’s voices authentically in my documentation?

Answer: Talk with and observe the children

Woman holding paperwork with a thoughtful expression

Question: What is the difference between critical reflection and reflective practice? Do you have to do both, or just one? Every day, every week?

Answer: Both are thinking skills to be used depending on the situation

Young, school-aged children lining up behind one another

Question: Is it wrong to ask children to line up? Some educators say there’s no need for children to wait in line before meals, outdoor play or on excursions, while others feel it’s important for safety and school readiness…

Answer: It’s not wrong or right, but it’s also not necessary

Angry, overwhelmed child sitting at a table, massaging his temples

Question: Help! The children in my 2–3s room don’t listen to me. How can I be firmer with them?

Answer: Promote a calmer environment and reflect on the needs behind children’s behaviour

Teacher and children at meal time

Question: At mealtimes, a lot of children are refusing to eat the main meal, so educators are requesting sandwiches be prepared for them instead. How can we create a menu where all children are at least eating some of the main meals?

Answer: There are a few strategies you could try

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