ACECQA Newsletter Issue 7 2015
Using digital touch technologies to support children's learning
Sharing culture through stories
Opening a new service
Free AEDC resources

Establishing healthy lifestyle habits
Amanda Lockeridge, State Program Manager for Munch & Move at NSW Health, writes about the importance of healthy eating and physical activity for young children, on ACECQA's blog.
One in four Australian children are overweight or obese. Causes of obesity in children include unhealthy food choices and lack of physical activity.
We know that good nutrition and physical activity for young children are vital to support healthy growth and development, to prevent illness and to provide the energy children need to power through their day. It is also important to lay the foundation for a healthy and active lifestyle from a young age.
Read more on We Hear You.
ACECQA chats with award-nominee Queensland family day care educator
Congratulations to the nominees of the Australian Family Early Education and Care Awards. National winners were announced at the gala in Sydney last month and ACECQA spoke with family day care educator and finalist of the Rising Star Award, Geoffrey Schick.
For Geoffrey, the bond that he’s built with the children and families in his service in Gowrie Junction, Queensland is the most rewarding aspect of his work. With 12 months’ experience helping run the service, Geoffrey said he continues to learn every day.
“I think some families choose the family day care option because the children can learn and play in a small group, and in a home environment. We’re able to form strong relationships with the children and families and the children feel like they belong,” he said.
“It’s definitely a dynamic group. The children are really competent learners and it’s amazing to see their confidence develop as they communicate, learn new skills and take calculated risks.
“There’s a big outdoor area which includes a sand pit, swings, mud kitchen, bike track, vegetable garden, space for chickens, the cat and two dogs.
“From picking pumpkins, collecting eggs, helping in the garden and building things in the shed, there’s always a task that they can help me with. I’ve received some positive feedback from the parents, which is rewarding and our service provider is enthusiastic and offers loads of encouragement.”
Toni Miles’ daughter attends the service and she thinks the educators have created a wonderful environment.
“Geoff showed my prep-aged daughter how to use power tools, sand, paint and drill things on to an old pallet to make a busy board,” Toni said. “She was so very proud and confident in her ability.
“She told me that night about the steps taken to make her safe and to make sure it was strong.
“Geoff really has a knack for encouraging the children to extend themselves but also giving them the skills to gauge the risks involved.”
Visit Neyah's Place Family Day Care Facebook page where their story continues and read more about the nominees and finalists of the Australian Family Early Education and Care Awards.
ACECQA National Workshops come to Queensland
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