Our Philosophy
Our Philosophy is guided by ’Being, Belonging, Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework’ and the ’National Quality Framework’. It is read alongside our Policies and Procedures.
In relation to Children
Children are unique individuals with their own strengths and interests and should be treated as individuals. Children’s development and learning is influenced by their different socio-cultural backgrounds and experiences, our educators work together to create experiences that strengthen each child's development, individuality and communication.
Children will be cared for in a comfortable, relaxed, safe and nurturing environment and this will encourage children to have a sense of belonging at Whitfords Occasional Child Care Centre.
Children need to have strong attachments with the people who care for them.
Early Childhood Educators have a responsibility to advocate for the rights and protection of all children in their care.and should be treated as individuals. Our educators are trained with the nationally recognized qualifications.
In relation to Education
Children learn best through play. Play provides opportunities for children to learn as they discover, create, improvise and imagine; create social groups, test out ideas, challenge each other’s thinking and build new understandings; ask questions, solve problems and engage in critical thinking; expand children’s thinking and enhance their desire to know and learn (Being, Belonging and Becoming, Pg 15).
A positive self esteem and social competency is a basis for learning. Children learn and develop at their own pace. Children’s knowledge is invaluable.
Children are given many opportunities to explore, choose, to investigate, role play, to play in groups and as individuals.
Children’s development should be supported by educators who will interact with each child. Early childhood Educators should facilitate meaningful play-based experiences that enhance children’s development. Childrens play is influence by their environment and the community around them.
In relation to Families
All families are welcome at Whitfords Occasional Child Care Centre.
All families should be encouraged to participate in the Centre in ways they feel comfortable.
Early Educators will build strong relationships and work alongside families to care for their children. Mutual trust and open communication are paramount in fostering this relationship. Families' individual child rearing practices will be respected. Families are always invited to participate in our yearly events, such as: Christmas parties, mothers and Father's Day activities etc.
As a Community Based Centre, families will be obliged to contribute to the Centre in ways such as the Building and Consumables Levy and will be encouraged to attend meetings and centre events such as ‘busy bees’.
In relation to the Community
Whitfords Occasional Child Care Centre is a non-profit centre and has been part of the Community for over 20 years.
Whitfords Occasional Child Care Centre builds links with other organisations within the community, supports the local community and encourages involvement from the local community within our Centre.
Whitfords Occasional Child Care Centre supports the development and education of local students by allowing work experience at our Centre.
Relationships are fostered with external agencies that support families and children such as Ngala, Meerlinga and CHILD Australia.
Where possible, Early Childhood Educators act as a resource for families by sharing, exchanging or linking them with information regarding child development, health and care giving practices.
Our Values:
Growth
Community
inclusion
Learning
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Growth: Each child is encouraged to learn and grow to their full potential. educators will nurture and help extend their levels of development.
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Community/Inclusion: We respect and value our community and everyone in it. We value the cultural diversity and work together to include everyone along with thier needs and ideas.
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Learning: Each child is encouraged to reach their full potential. Educators will nurture and guide each child's needs and wants.