Early Learning Matters Week: Why the Early Years Are Everything
This week, we proudly join early childhood services across Australia in celebrating Early Learning Matters Week – a national initiative that highlights the vital importance of early childhood education and care in the lives of children, families and communities.
At our centres, we see every day just how powerful the early years are. These are the years where brains are built, identities are shaped and lifelong habits and skills are formed. From a baby’s first giggle to a toddler’s curiosity-filled questions and a preschooler’s sense of independence, early learning is about so much more than school readiness – it’s about life readiness.
Why Early Learning Matters
90% of a child’s brain development happens before the age of five.
This staggering fact reminds us just how critical those first years are. The experiences children have between birth and age five lay the foundation for how they learn, think and relate to others for the rest of their lives.
Through high-quality early learning, children develop:
• Cognitive skills like problem-solving, creativity and memory
• Language and communication, from first words to storytelling
• Social-emotional skills, including empathy, self-regulation and resilience
• Physical skills through active play, fine motor development and movement
It’s during this time that children are learning how to be in the world; how to form relationships, understand themselves and navigate challenges.
The Role of Educators
Behind every playful moment, every question answered and every comforting hug, there are passionate, skilled early childhood educators who understand just how much learning is happening in every interaction.
Educators are not just caretakers – they are brain builders, relationship nurturers and play partners. They intentionally create rich learning environments, spark children’s curiosity and foster a strong sense of belonging and identity.
More Than Just Play
Sometimes early learning can be mistaken for “just play” – but play is a child’s natural way of learning. Whether they are stacking blocks, digging in the garden, painting with a friend or engaging in imaginative role play, they are learning how the world works – socially, emotionally and intellectually.
Through play-based learning, children are developing foundational skills that will support them well into adulthood.
A Shared Responsibility
Early learning does not just happen in early learning centres – it happens at home, in the community and in everyday interactions. When families and educators work together, we create a strong circle of support around each child, helping them thrive.
Early Learning Matters Week is a wonderful reminder that investing in the early years is not only about giving children the best start, it’s about building stronger, more compassionate, more capable communities.
Join Us in Celebrating
This week, we invite our families and communities to celebrate the magic of early learning. Whether it’s by sharing a story, engaging in a play activity with your child, or simply taking a moment to reflect on their growth, your involvement makes a difference.
Because early learning really does matter – not just for school, but for life.
