Learn Play Thrive Early Education Podcast
The Learn Play Thrive Early Education Podcast offers expert insights, practical tips, and inspiring stories for early childhood educators and sector leaders. It focuses on fostering learning, promoting play-based approaches, and empowering young minds. The podcast covers pedagogy, quality practices, and professional growth in early childhood education.
Episodes
Intentional Teaching in ECEC
In this episode, host Simone Brand sits down with Meg Parnell, Principal Researcher at the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO), to explore the transformative power of intentional teaching in early childhood education and care. Meg unpacks AERO’s groundbreaking research showing how intentional teaching maximises learning opportunities—particularly for children from equity cohorts—and
Building Your Village S1E2: Creating Your Village in Pregnancy
In this second episode of Building Your Village—a special 10-part mini-series for the Learn Play Thrive podcast—host Simone Brand rejoins Kathryn Stoneman and Harriet Blannin-Ferguson from The Village Collective to deliver a practical "how-to" guide on intentionally constructing a support network during pregnancy. The discussion challenges the common habit of shifting focus toward suppor
Is Nature Pedagogy Overated?
In this episode of the Learn Play Thrive: Early Education podcast, we welcome Dr. Claire Warden and tackle the thought-provoking question - "Is nature overrated?" Claire reframes the conversation by challenging how we define nature, arguing that viewing it as an external destination rather than an integral part of human existence creates an artificial divide. Drawing on Tim Ingold’s conc
Navigating the NQS #13: Standard 6.2 - Collaborative partnerships
In this episode of Navigating the NQS, host Simone Brand continues the journey through Quality Area 6: Collaborative Partnerships with Families and Communities, taking a deep dive into Standard 6.2 (Collaborative Partnerships). Expanding the focus outward from family relationships to the broader community ecosystem, Simone explores how establishing strong inter-agency networks, local connections,
Caring for Neurodivergent Children and Families
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive, host Simone Brand welcomes Madeleine Jaine Lobsey, certified AuDHD coach, keynote speaker, advocate, and founder of Wondiverse. Diagnosed as AuDHD at 48, Madeleine draws on her deep lived experience and extensive background in the arts and community programs to help families, workplaces, and early childhood settings better understand neurodivergence. The discu
S2E8 Little Library: Derek
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive’s Little Library, host Linda Harrison welcomes multi-talented author Anne Donaldson to celebrate her CBCA award-winning picture book, Derek (illustrated by Matt Shanks and published by Little Hare). The conversation delves into the charming world of Derek, a curious goldfish in a pet shop whose quest to answer life's big scientific questions leads to a dee
PART 2 - Design Is Not Decoration: Pedagogy Made Visible
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive, host Simone Brand welcomes back Pedagogical Coordinator Clare Comedoy for part two of an insightful discussion on infant and toddler pedagogy, focusing on the spaces we curate for our youngest learners. Clare breaks down why there is no single "recipe" for designing the perfect early childhood room, highlighting how architectural features, natural li
Building Your Village S1E1: Welcome to Building Your Village
In this debut episode of Building Your Village—an exclusive 10-part mini-series for the Learn Play Thrive podcast—host Simone Brand introduces Kathryn Stoneman (birth and postpartum doula) and Harriet Blannin-Ferguson (midwife, IBCLC lactation consultant, and early years nurse), the founders of The Village Collective. Together, they address the modern landscape of motherhood, exploring why so many
PART 1 - Design Is Not Decoration: Pedagogy Made Visible
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive, host Simone Brand welcomes Pedagogical Coordinator Clare Comedoy to explore the profound impact physical and relational environments have on infants and toddlers. Clare shares her deep perspective on early childhood pedagogy, unpacking why room design and learning spaces go far beyond basic setup and aesthetics. Together, they discuss how environments shape a
Road Safety in Early Education #7: Digital Tools for Road Safety Education
Welcome back to our Road Safety in Early Education mini-series. where host Linda Harrison chats with road safety education experts Amanda Menzies and Bec Dunn from Kids and Traffic., In this epsiode, we explore how digital technology—when guided by intentional pedagogy and aligned with the Early Childhood Australia (ECA) Statement on Young Children and Digital Technologies—can serve as a powerful,
Insights from Inspire X
In this special compilation episode of Learn Play Thrive, we head straight to the floor of the Semann and Slattery InspireX Conference. Host Simone Brand captures game-changing insights and passionate reflections from sector leaders and early childhood educators. Co-founder Anthony Semann kicks off the episode with a powerful challenge, asking us to consider what children might say if we truly lis
Navigating the NQS #12: Standard 6.1 - Supportive relationships with families
Welcome back to Navigating the NQS, the National Quality Standard breakdown for licensed Early Childhood Education and Care settings in Australia. In this episode, host Simone Brand shifts our focus to Quality Area 6 - 'Collaborative Partnerships with Families and Communities', diving deep into Standard 6.1—Supportive relationships with families. Simone explores how moving beyond one-way
Building Inclusive Early Learning Environments
Host Simone Brand sits down with Dina Petrakis, CEO of Ethnic Community Services (ECS), to dive into the vital role of cultural inclusion in early childhood education. Drawing on over 20 years of leadership in social justice, international aid, and refugee support, Dina shares her passion for empowering culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities and advocating for equitable access ac
S2E7 Little Library: The Thing About Christmas
Celebrate the true spirit of Christmas in this episode of the Learn Play Thrive Little Library! Join host Linda Harrison as she sits down with award-winning illustrator Briony Stewart to discuss her 2026 CBCA Honour-winning picture book 'The Thing About Christmas' (authored by Jo Dabrowski, published by Little Book Press).The episode explores how this heartwarming, inclusive picture book
Strengthening Professional Identity and Educator Wellbeing
In this episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast, host Simone Brand sits down with early childhood teacher, advocate, and play therapist in training -- Emma Rattenbury. Bringing over 20 years of sector experience, Emma tackles the critical challenge of building a strong professional identity in early childhood education. The conversation dives deep into why a robust professional self-image is esse
Road Safety in Early Education #6: Making Road Safety Musical
Music and movement take centre stage in this episode of Learn Play Thrive, as host Linda Harrison chats with Amanda Menzies and Bec Dunn from Macquarie University's Kids and Traffic program. Grounded in EYLF V2.0, the discussion highlights how educators can use the core elements of music—beat, tempo and timbre—to help children embody important road safety concepts through pretend play. From p
Why Health Literacy Starts in the Early Years
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive, host Simone Brand sits down with Lisa Woodward and Michelle Weisbaum from Life Ed Australia—the powerhouse team behind the iconic Healthy Harold programs—to explore the evolving landscape of health, wellbeing, and innovation in early childhood. Together, they unpack what health literacy looks like in action for young children today. The discussion highlights t
Play Provocations #10: Sensory Play
In this episode of Play Provocations, host Linda Harrison is joined by lead early childhood educator Michelle Jackson to explore the vital role of sensory play as a cornerstone of early learning. Grounded in research, the conversation highlights how intentional, open-ended sensory experiences form the neural baseline for children's holistic development. Linda and Michelle discuss the importan
Tamworth Pedagogy in Practice: Early Education Conference Panel
In this special panel episode recorded live at the Pedagogy in Practice: Early Education Conference in Tamworth, the Learn Play Thrive podcast brings together four leading voices in early childhood education to explore the small, intentional decisions that shape transformative practice. Consultant Kirsty Liljegren of The Creative Collection follows with an inspiring look at how educators can make
Navigating the NQS #11: Standard 5.2 - Relationships between children
In this episode of Navigating the NQS, host Simone Brand dives into Quality Area 5, Standard 5.2 to explore how early childhood settings support children in building sensitive, responsive peer relationships. Moving beyond basic group work, Simone breaks down Element 5.2.1 on collaborative learning, highlighting how educators can foster peer mentorship and facilitate long-term, child-led inquiry pr
Attracting, Sustaining and Preparing Quality Teachers in Early Childhood
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive, host Simone Brand sits down with leading researcher Professor Sandie Wong to unpack groundbreaking ARC-funded research on the early childhood workforce crisis. Moving beyond stereotypes that undervalue early childhood education, Professor Wong provides hard evidence on the immense complexity, rapid task-switching, and specialised skills required of educators—h
S2E6 Little Library: My Nonno Loves
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive’s Little Library, host Linda Harrison sits down with acclaimed children's author Adelle Frittitta to discuss her heartwarming picture book 'My Nonno Loves'—a 2026 CBCA shortlisted title in the Early Childhood category. This story explores intergenerational relationships and the non-verbal, everyday ways families communicate love across language a
Embedding Diverse Languages in ECEC
In this episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast, host Simone Brand sits down with Amanda MacDonald, Early Learning Specialist at Education Services Australia (ESA). They discuss the national expansion of Early Learning Languages Australia (ELLA), a government-backed, play-based digital language program into Foundation to Year 2 classrooms. Amanda shares how ELLA’s suite of 11 immersive, curriculu
Road Safety in Early Education #5: Early Numeracy in Everyday Travel
In this episode of the Learn Play Thrive mini-series on Road Safety in Early Education, we welcome back Amanda Menzies and Bec Dunn from Kids and Traffic—the Early Childhood Road Safety Education Program at Macquarie University. We explore how everyday travel and road safety education provide a meaningful context to spark children's early numeracy understandings. From tallying travel modes us
Celebrating Early Learning Matters Week 2026
In this special feature episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast celebrating Early Learning Matters Week 2026, host Simone Brand chats with three distinguished early childhood leaders—Mary-Louise Clifford (Nominated Supervisor, Glenning Valley Child Care Centre), alongside Kylie Wade (Director) and Ella Peers (Educational Leader) from Highland Grove Preschool. Together, they unpack the foundationa
Play Provocations #9: Construction Play
In this inspiring episode of our Play Provocations mini-series, host Linda Harrison is joined by lead early childhood educator Michelle Jackson to explore how intentional environmental design can elevate construction play into a rich hub for creativity, engineering, and storytelling. Together, they unpack the pedagogical power of construction play—highlighting how manipulating open-ended mediums l
Bush Kindy Australia
In this episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast, host Simone Brand sits down with Bec Burch, the visionary founder of Bush Kindy Australia. As Australia’s leading provider of Bush Kindy Leader Training and nature pedagogy professional development, Bec mentors educators nationwide to build confident, compliant, and meaningful nature-based programs. Grounded in her daily, hands-on work with childre
S2E5 Little Library: Ships In The Field with Susanne Gervay
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive’s Little Library mini-series, host Linda Harrison sits down with Order of Australia honoree and award-winning author Susanne Gervay to explore her moving picture book, 'Ships in the Field'. Drawing from her own family history as the child of post-war refugees, Susanne shares the inspiration behind this CBCA Notable story, which tenderly captures the j
Connecting the Dots Between Music and Self-regulation
In this episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast, we welcome Amelia, former Early Learning Music Specialist at International Grammar School and founder of Rhymey. After witnessing firsthand how intentional musical moments can instantly transform classroom energy—bringing focus, emotional regulation, and deep connection to young children—Amelia launched Rhymey to bridge the growing gap in early chi
Navigating the NQS #10: Standard 5.1 - Relationships between educators and children
Welcome back to the Navigating the NQS podcast mini-series with host Simone Brand! In this episode, Simone dives straight into the absolute heart of daily early childhood practice - Quality Area 5, Standard 5.1. Simone unpacks the deep intentionality needed to maintain respectful and equitable relationships with each child, showing how an Exceeding-level service transforms ordinary routines into p
Building Sustainable Quality at Gilgandra Preschool
In this inspiring episode, Simone sits down with the leadership and pedagogical powerhouse team from Gilgandra Preschool. Together, they share how they have pioneered a model of "adaptive quality" that is responsive to changing rural/regional/remote community realities, workforce pressures and unique child needs.The team dives deep into the philosophy that high-quality outcomes do not be
Road Safety in Early Education #4: Language, literacy & learning
Welcome back to the Road Safety in Early Education podcast mini-series! In this episode, we reframe the local streetscape as a giant, interactive picture book, demonstrating how road safety education naturally drives early language and literacy. Aligning with EYLF V2.0 Outcome 5, the team discusses how real-world experiences—like decoding environmental print and using "commentary walking"
Creating a Culture of Sustainability in ECEC
Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast! In this episode, host Simone Brand sits down with Dorothée Seeto, Director of Endless Play Studio. Many early childhood services find themselves stuck, scattered, or dependent on a single passionate educator when it comes to sustainability practices. Dorothée delivers a powerful reframe to overcome this overwhelm - "Sustainabili
Play Provocations #8: Digital Play
Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Play Provocations podcast mini-series with host Linda Harrison! In this episode, Linda is joined by Dr. Kate Highfield, Head of School for the School of Teacher Education at the University of Canberra. As a co-author of Early Childhood Australia’s updated 'Statement on Young Children and Digital Technologies', Dr. Highfield shares ways digital tools
Beyond Attachment: Using Theories with Infants and Toddlers
In this episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast, host Simone Brand invites listeners to journey into the intentional heart of infant and toddler pedagogy alongside two leading academics and sector voices - Andi Salamon from the University of Canberra and Tina Stratigos from the University of Sydney.This deep-dive discussion aims to move foundational theorists like Bowlby, Parten, and Piaget off t
S2E4 Little Library: Mr Huff
Welcome to a brand-new episode of Learn Play Thrive’s Little Library mini-series, where host Linda Harrison is joined by Linda Stock—a qualified early childhood educator, therapeutic practitioner, and university lecturer specialising in children’s literature. In this illuminating conversation, the two experts dive deep into the emotional landscapes of picture books, focusing on Anna Walker’s award
Building Resilience and Tackling Anxiety in Young Children
In this episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast, host Simone Brand sits down with Dr. Kaylene Henderson—a medically trained child and adolescent psychiatrist, parenting specialist, and one of Australia’s most trusted early childhood experts. Known for her warm, relatable style and ability to translate complex research into "doable" approaches, Dr. Henderson unpacks the emotional and pra
Navigating the NQS #9: Standard 4.2 Professionalism
What takes an early childhood service from a group of people working in the same building to a collaborative, ethical community of practice? In this episode of our Navigating the NQS mini-series, host Simone Brand dives straight into the heart of team culture: Quality Area 4, Standard 4.2 – Professionalism. This quality standard is about the spirit—it’s the invisible glue that holds a service toge
Weaving Country into Curriculum
In this very special live episode of Learn Play Thrive, host Simone Brand sits down with Aunty Tracey Linn Bostock—a Bundjalung Mulungjali Woman, artist, author and early childhood educator with over 30 years of experience in the sector.If you have ever used the beautiful Acknowledgement of Country featured on ABC's Play School, you are already familiar with Aunty Tracey's incredible wor
Road Safety in Early Education #3: A Framework for Programming and Planning
In this episode of our Road Safety in Early Education mini-series, we explore how to move beyond 'Road Safety Week' and embed life-saving messages into your daily curriculum throuhgout the year. Using high-quality, play-based pedagogy aligned with the EYLF V2.0, we discuss how to use transitions, dramatic play, and children’s spontaneous interests to make road safety a natural part of ea
The Sleep Smart Guide to Safe Rest in ECEC
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive, we explore the vital role of sleep and rest in early childhood settings with the team from Sleep Smart Australia.Quality sleep is a cornerstone of child development, yet navigating sleep routines in an ECEC environment can be complex. We dive into how Sleep Smart Australia is revolutionizing this space by bridging the gap between safe sleep guidelines and nurt
Play Provocations #7: Nature Play
Step outside the four walls of an early years classroom and into a world of invitations to wonder. In this episode of Play Provocations, Linda Harrison sits down with Centre Director and nature play advocate Aimee Hansen to explore how the natural world acts as a living, breathing co-teacher. They discuss how nature play builds essential executive function and school readiness in children under fi
Building a Bridge to Belonging: Supporting Children in Foster Care and Adoption
In this moving episode, we are joined by international guest Jeanette Yoffe, Clinical Director of Yoffe Therapy and founder of the Celia Center in LA. Jeanette shares her profound personal journey through the foster and adoption systems, explaining how her own history of separation fueled her mission to become a therapist and advocate. She introduces powerful therapeutic tools — such as the "
S2E3 Little Library: What Do You Call Your Mum?
Join us for a heartwarming new episode of the Learn Play Thrive: Little Library mini-series! Host Linda Harrison sits down with bestselling children's author Ashleigh Barton to explore her latest picture book, What Do You Call Your Mum? This rhyming story takes readers around the world to discover the many names for "Mum"—from Okaasan in Japan to Tina in Fiji. Ashleigh shares the in
Attachment and Parenting: Where Does It All Fit?
In this episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast, we are joined by Megan Jones, a Clinical Psychologist with over 26 years of experience, to unpack the science behind building secure attachments. Megan clarifies common misconceptions, explaining how research-driven attachment-based parenting is vastly different from permissive parenting. We explore the "control center" of the parent-chil
Road Safety in Early Education #2: A Whole-of-Service Approach
In this next episode of our Road Safety in Early Education mini-series, host Linda Harrison is joined by experts Amanda and Bec to shift the conversation from "one-off incursions" to a deliberate, ongoing commitment. We dive into the three core pillars of effective road safety education - partnerships, policies, and programming. Discover why road safety shouldn't be a stand-alone to
Championing Access to Quality ECEC
In this compelling episode of Learn Play Thrive, host Simone Brand joins forces with Georgie Dent, CEO of The Parenthood, to confront the systemic fractures currently defining the early childhood landscape. From 'childcare deserts' and soaring fees to the myth of informal care, this conversation strips away the political jargon to reveal the real-world impact on Australian families. Geor
Navigating the NQS #8: Standard 4.1 - Staffing Arrangements
In this episode of the Navigating the NQS mini-series, host Simone Brand dives into Quality Area 4, Standard 4.1—Staffing Arrangements. Simone tackles the elephant in the room—the national ECEC workforce shortage—and explores how high-quality services can maintain intentionality despite the daily marathon of meeting ratios. We break down how to move beyond simply 'covering the floor' to
Educator and Exhibitor Voices: ECA Regional, Rural and Remote Early Childhood Forum
In this special live episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast, we take you to the heart of the ECA Regional, Rural and Remote Early Childhood Forum in Coffs Harbour. Host Simone Brand explores the vital work being done by professionals who champion quality early education across NSW’s most diverse landscapes. This episode dives deep into the unique challenges and incredible opportunities facing re
Play Provocations #6: Small World Play
In this episode, Play Provocations returns with a deep dive into Small World Play. Host Linda Harrison is joined by Centre Director Aimee Hansen to discuss how miniature environments—filled with tiny figurines, recycled loose parts, and natural materials—are powerful vehicles for child-led learning. We explore how small world play allows children to act out complex emotions and make sense of the w
The 2026 ECEC Roadmap: Award Changes, Retention Payments, and NES Updates
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive, host Simone Brand broadcasts live from the ECA Regional, Rural & Remote Forum to tackle the most pressing legal and industrial shifts hitting the ECEC sector. We are joined by Leanne Cruden, a seasoned industrial relations lawyer leading the charge on gender-based undervaluation proceedings for the Australian Industry Group. Victor Lin, a senior solicitor
S2E2 Little Library: Castle Crashing
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive’s Little Library, we head to the seaside to explore the 2026 CBCA Notable picture book, Castle Crashing. Join host Linda Harrison and award-winning author Andrea Rowe as they dive into the relatable world of Bonnie, a young girl whose beach day takes a turn when her friends’ creative visions collide with her own. Beneath the beautiful, salt-sprayed illustration
Sector Insights from Family Day Care Australia
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive, host Simone Brand sits down with Andrew Paterson, CEO of Family Day Care Australia (FDCA). With over a decade of leadership at the national peak body, Andrew pulls back the curtain on the unique strengths of the family day care (FDC) model and how it serves as a high-quality pillar of the early childhood sector. We dive into FDCA’s pivotal role as a fierce adv
Road Safety In Early Education #1: Key Road Safety Messages
Welcome to a special edition of the Learn Play Thrive podcast as we launch an exciting 10-part mini-series Road Safety in Early Education. Recorded in partnership with Kids and Traffic, the Early Childhood Road Safety Education Program at Macquarie University, this series is designed to empower educators with evidence-based strategies for keeping our littlest learners safe. In this premiere episod
Educational Leadership in ECEC
In this episode, we sit down with pedagogical leader Kelly Goodsir to explore the transformative power of intentional inquiry and deep listening in early learning. With over 20 years of experience, Kelly discusses how to reimagine educational leadership, moving away from "habitual" responses toward a relational, purposeful practice. She shares strategies for navigating team tensions and
Navigating the NQS #7: Standard 3.2 Physical Environment - Use
In this episode, host Simone Brand explores National Quality Standard 3.2 - Use of the Physical Environment. We dive into: - Element 3.2.1 and the importance of creating a sense of belonging through responsive, inclusive pedagogy.- Element 3.2.2 by exploring how carefully selected open-ended resources and natural materials can support play-based learning. - Element 3.2.3 and ways services can embe
The Hundred Languages of Children: An Introduction to Reggio Emilia
In this episode, we are joined by a powerhouse duo from the Reggio Emilia Australia Information Exchange (REAIE) - Chairperson Kate Mount and General Manager Cara Mearns. With over six decades of combined experience, Kate and Cara explore the profound impact of the Reggio Emilia Approach in Australian early childhood settings. We dive into the heart of Loris Malaguzzi’s 'Hundred Languages of
Play Provocations #3: Risky Play for Preschoolers
Join hosts Linda Harrison and Lindsay Laing as they explore the vital role of Risky Play in early childhood settings! Find out why risky play is important for building a young child's resilience, self-confidence, and problem-solving skills. This episode equips educators to understand the 6 types of Risky Play in early education. You'll take away an innovative play provocation idea with u
Play Provocations #5: Play Schemas Part Two
In the second part of our deep dive into play schemas, host Linda Harrison and Educational Leader Rachel Emms explore the final four of the 'Big Eight' patterns of behaviour - orientation, positioning, enveloping, and rotation. By understanding these play schemas, educators can transform their physical learning environments into responsive 'third teachers' that cater to a child
Fostering Digital Literacy with Story Box Library
In this episode, we welcome Teresa Mei Macri and Haley Davis from Story Box Library to discuss how theis digital platform connects young children with diverse Australian stories. We discuss the use of technology in early learning, exploring how multimodal stories align with the EYLF V2.0 and ECA Statement on Young Children and Digital Technologies. Teresa and Haley explain how these digital resour
S2E1 Little Library: Laugh In The Bath
In this episode of Learn Play Thrive’s Little Library, host Linda Harrison dives into the bubbly world of Laugh in the Bath (2026 CBCA Notable picture book), together with author Rory H. Mather. From the power of rhythm and rhyme to the importance of active adult participation in play, this episode highlights how simple daily routines build a child’s sense of agency, identity, and wellbeing.For ed
Learn Play Thrive Early Education Conference: Pedagogy in Practice Panel
In this live-recorded episode from the Pedagogy in Practice: Early Education Conference on the NSW Central Coast, host Simone Brand sits down with an powerhouse panel of sector experts including - Colin Slattery (Semann and Slattery), Dr. Gai Lindsay (Inquiry and Arty Play), Jessica Staines (Koori Curriculum), Kirsty Liljegren (The Creative Collection), Dr. Kate Highfield (University of Canberra),
Navigating the NQS #6: Standard 3.1 Physical Environment - Design
In this episode of Navigating the NQS, we explore Standard 3.1 Physical Environment - Design; and the concept of the physical environment as the "third teacher." Drawing on the Reggio Emilia approach and the insights of Lella Gandini, we discuss how a'fit for purpose' designed space goes beyond safety to promote flexibility and a young child's independence and a deep conn
Children's Behaviour: It's More Than Just Managing
In this episode, we welcome Professor Cathrine Neilsen-Hewett, Chief Children’s Officer for Goodstart Early Learning, to discuss the neuroscience of behaviour. Cathrine challenges the traditional view of "challenging behaviour," shifting the focus to how a child’s environment and relationships impact their ability to self-regulate. By exploring the neuroscientific connection between the
Play Provocations #4: Play Schemas Part One
Ever wonder why a toddler is obsessed with dropping peas from a high chair or why blocks are constantly being carted across the room in a bucket? In this episode of Play Provocations, host Linda Harrison is joined by Educational Leader Rachel Emms to flip the script on "challenging" repetitive behaviors. Together, they dive into the fascinating world of play schemas - those innate, repea
The ARACY Approach: Championing Child Health and Wellbeing
In this episode of the Learn Play Thrive Australia podcast, we sit down with Kirrin Sampson, an advocate for the early years currently leading programs at ARACY (Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth). Kirrin shares her expertise in bridging the gap between research and practice, explaining how ARACY’s mission supports the foundational development of young children. We explore '
Little Dreamers #10: Animal Yoga
Step into a peaceful morning on the farm with this episode of Little Dreamers, where host Kathryn leads preschoolers through a soothing mindfulness journey themed around animal yoga. The adventure begins with gentle breathwork and a gratitude practice, inviting children to imagine the sights and sounds of a paddock. By combining soft imagery with mindful movement, this episode helps young listener
Feel Safe, Be Safe: Embedding Child Protective Strategies into Everyday Teaching
⚠️ Listener warning: Anatomical Language - Please be advised that this episode contains discussions regarding child protective behaviours and body safety strategies. As part of this important conversation, our guest uses correct anatomical names for body parts. Providing children with the correct language for their bodies is a key safety strategy in early childhood education. However, we suggest p
S1E10 Little Library: Another Year Around The Sun
Join Linda Harrison and award-winning author Katrina Germein as they dive into her latest picture book, Another Year Around the Sun. This lyrical story follows a family through a magical year of outdoor play—from summer waves to autumn leaves. Katrina shares the heartwarming personal memories that inspired the book and explains how its vibrant, paper-collage illustrations help preschoolers connect
Unpacking the Relevance of the Teacher Standards for the ECEC sector
In this episode, host Simone Brand welcomes Danny Pinchas from The Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL). We unpack how the Teacher Standards affirm the professional identity of early childhood educators, providing national consistency and a clear framework for quality teaching across the sector.Danny explains that setting this national benchmark directly impacts childre
Navigating the NQS #5: Standard 2.2 - Safety
In this episode of Navigating the NQS, host Simone Brand breaks down the shift from compliance to excellence in Standard 2.2: Safety. She challenges educators to move beyond 'blanket supervision' toward pedagogical agility, where teams intentionally position themselves to support individual child rhythms. By treating supervision as an active, living practice rather than a perimeter-watch
Shaping Stronger Futures: Developing Speech and Language Programs
In this episode, we are honoured to sit down with Director Amy Shine, an incredible force in the ECEC sector with over 25 years of dedicated experience in rural and remote communities. Amy is a passionate advocate for inclusion, reconciliation, and ensuring that every voice is heard within the early years classroom. Amy shares her deep commitment to building strong community partnerships and a cul
Little Dreamers #9: Cats and Dogs
In this month's episode of our Little Dreamers mini-series, we explore the playful world of our favourite furry friends! Host Kathryn leads preschoolers on a gentle relaxation journey through a sun-drenched backyard, smelling the fresh eucalyptus leaves and feeling the soft green grass. It’s a sensory-rich mindfulness experience designed to help little ones transition from high energy to a st
Empowering Educators in Early Learning with Twinkl
Welcome to an invigorating episode of Learn Play Thrive! Today, we are joined by a powerhouse of our sector, Stacey Jackson from Twinkl Australia. As the Early Years Segment Manager, Stacey is at the forefront of bridge-building between pedagogical theory and the practical, transformative tools used in early years learning environments every day. In this conversation, we dive deep into the '
S1E9 Little Library: Bowerbird Brood
Join Linda Harrison and author/illustrator Aura Parker to explore the delightful picture book, Bowerbird Brood. This enchanting story is a heart-warming ode to nature and a mother's love, exploring themes of protection, nurturing, and belonging vital for young children. Discover how Aura's beautiful illustrations feature 'seek-and-find' Australian insects and birds, supporting
Early Childhood Education Summit 2026
In this powerful episode of Learn Play Thrive, we are joined by Dr Red Ruby Scarlet—an activist, teacher-researcher, and academic who has spent over three decades championing quality early childhood education and care. Red is a driving force behind the Early Childhood Education Summit 2026, a national movement born out of the exclusion of early childhood educators from the very political decisions
Navigating the NQS #4: Standard 2.1 - Health
In this episode of Navigating the NQS, host Simone Brand discusses Quality Area 2: Children’s Health and Safety. This episode dives deep into Standard 2.1: Health, unpacking the three core elements that drive a safe and nurturing environment for young children in ECEC settings. Learn how to move beyond policy and into practice, focusing on:- responsive comfort- robust illness and injury management
The Pedagogy in Practice: Early Education 2026 Conference Preview!
In this special episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast, host Simone Brand sits down with producer Linda Harrison to give you an exclusive sneak peek into our upcoming Pedagogy in Practice: Early Education Conference. Tune in to hear about our incredible lineup of experts—including Colin Slattery, Dr. Gai Lindsay, Dr. Kate Highfield, Amelia Scarf, Kirsty Liljegren and Jessica Staines. You'll
Children's Voices: Boab Committee
In this heartwarming episode of the Learn Play Thrive podcast, we shift the spotlight to where it truly belongs - the children. The Boab Committee is a small group of preschoolers who meet regularly with their educators to discuss real topics that matter in their everyday experiences at their long day care service. This episode gives listeners a joyful window into genuine child agency, democratic
From Framework to Footpath: A Practical Guide to Road Safety in ECEC
Tune in for an important discussion on keeping our youngest road users safe! We welcome Louise Cosgrove and Amanda Menzies from Kids and Traffic (Transport for NSW) to share their expert insights. Discover how the Kids and Traffic key road safety messages function as a 'curriculum toolkit' helping educators bring road safety to life in an engaging, meaningful way. Learn how you can lever
