The Educator's Edit

Dress-ups, costumes, themed activities and special celebration days are a huge part of life in early childhood education. But have you ever stopped to ask… do children actually understand why we're celebrating?This week, Bec and Tiana sit down with Simone, founder of Aware Bear, to unpack the meaning behind celebration days like Book Week, Harmony Week, NAIDOC Week and more. Together, they explore how educators can move beyond the dress-up box and create meaningful, age-appropriate experiences that help children develop a deeper understanding of identity, culture, belonging and community.In this episode, we chat about:✨ Why Book Week is about more than costumes and favourite characters✨ Helping children understand the meaning behind celebration days✨ Building inclusive and authentic learning experiences✨ Supporting educators to feel confident talking about culture and diversity✨ The inspiration behind Aware Bear and the beautiful resources designed to spark meaningful conversationsWhether you're planning for Book Week or reflecting on how your service celebrates important days throughout the year, this episode is packed with thoughtful ideas and practical inspiration.Because sometimes the most important question we can ask is… why are we celebrating this?Connect with Simone & Aware Bear🌐 Website & Shop: Home - Aware Bear🧸 Purchase the Aware Bear Pack: Available via the website, including Aware Bear, celebration patches, 15 storybooks and downloadable educator resources aligned with the EYLF and My Time, Our Place.📸 Instagram: @‌awarebearofficial📘 Facebook: Aware Bear OfficialIf you bring Aware Bear into your service, don't forget to tag Simone and share how you're making celebration days more meaningful in your learning community!

It's Science Week! 🔬🧪And what better time to ask: what does STEM actually look like in early learning?You might picture complicated experiments, test tubes and educators who somehow know the answer to every "WHY?" a child throws at them. But STEM doesn't have to be complicated, expensive or intimidating.In this Science Week episode of The Educators Edit, Tiana and Jackie chat with Ellie from Ranger Jamie about the science, technology, engineering and maths learning that's already happening all around us.We unpack how educators can follow children's curiosity, encourage them to make predictions, embrace the "I don't know, let's find out" moments and allow children to experience failure as part of learning.We also explore how STEM looks different across age groups, why babies and toddlers are already natural scientists, and how something as simple as water play, building with cardboard or pressing a button can become an opportunity for scientific thinking.And because no TEE episode would be complete without a little controversy, Ellie takes on our STEM Hot Takes. 👀So whether you're a self-proclaimed STEM nerd or someone who hears "science" and immediately thinks that's not really my thing, this episode might change the way you see STEM in your room.🎧 Listen now and celebrate Science Week with us!🦘 Find Ranger Jamie ToursWant to see more from Ranger Jamie Tours? Follow along:🌐 Website: Australia's #1 Excursion Provider | Ranger Jamie Tours📸 Instagram: Ranger Jamie Tours (@rangerjamietours) • Instagram profile📘 Facebook: Ranger Jamie Tours▶️ YouTube: Ranger Jamie

What do you do when a child's behaviour feels overwhelming, transitions become a daily battle, or you're just not sure what to try next?In this episode of The Educators Edit, we're joined by Kirsten, The Grove Academy's Behaviour Therapist, for a practical and honest conversation about some of the real challenges educators face every day.From children struggling with transitions and arrival, to supporting big emotions, co-regulation, group times, sensory needs and those tricky conversations when families say, "But they don't do that at home!" Kirsten shares practical strategies and a different way of looking at behaviour.We also chat about the emotional load on educators, how leaders can recognise when their teams need more support, and why sometimes the best thing we can do is stop trying to fix everything and start looking at what's happening underneath the behaviour.Expect plenty of practical takeaways, real educator scenarios and advice you can take straight back into your room.

This week on The Educators Edit, we're flipping the script.Tiana is back in the podcast studio while on maternity leave and preparing for a brand new experience - searching for childcare for her own little one.After years of welcoming families into centres, she's now the parent walking through the door, asking the questions, noticing the little things, and trying to find the right fit.Together, Jackie, Bec and Tiana chat about:💛 What families are really looking for on centre tours in 2026🏡 The small things that leave a lasting impression🚩 Green flags, red flags… and the ones that could be both👶 How becoming a parent changes your perspective as an educator✨ Why trust, relationships and feeling matter more than everWhether you're an educator giving tours, a leader supporting enrolments, or a parent starting your own childcare search, this episode is a reminder that behind every enrolment enquiry is a family simply looking for somewhere their child will be loved, safe and belong.Tune in for an honest, relatable and surprisingly emotional conversation about seeing our sector through a different lens.

This week, Jackie and Bec dive into the topics that always spark debate in early childhood education. From screen time and sustainability to food play, educational philosophies, under-the-roof ratios, risky play and those Pinterest-perfect expectations, nothing is off the table.No drama. No "right" answers. Just honest conversations, different perspectives and plenty of laughs along the way.Whether you're nodding along, disagreeing out loud or rethinking your own practice, this episode is guaranteed to get the staffroom talking.What's your biggest educator hot take? We'd love to hear it.

This week on The Educators Edit, Jackie sits down with Tayla and Vanessa from TGA Oatley to unpack the heart behind their newly reworked centre philosophy, “Every Step Matters on Their Journey Up.”More than just words on a wall, this philosophy was created collaboratively by their entire team, drawing from real educator experiences, challenges, growth, relationships and the everyday moments that shape life in early childhood.Together, they chat about:What makes a philosophy feel genuine and lived, not just laminatedWhy educator growth deserves just as much recognition as children’s developmentThe quiet moments in ECEC that often have the biggest impactBuilding a strong team culture in early childhoodSupporting educators through confidence, reflection and growthThe importance of relationships, connection and belonging within a serviceA thoughtful, emotional and inspiring conversation for anyone working in early childhood.

In this episode of The Educators Edit, Bec sits down with TGA Behaviour Specialist Kirsten to unpack one of the biggest challenges educators face every day - behaviour.From emotional regulation and communication breakdowns to inclusion, sensory needs and supporting families with compassion, this conversation is full of practical strategies and mindset shifts that every educator can take back into the room.Kirsten shares her journey from studying in the UK to working across schools, clinics and early learning settings, and explains why behaviour should never be viewed as “naughty”, but instead as communication.They chat about:supporting dysregulated children in the momentwhy proactive strategies matter more than reactive onesthe power of visuals, routines and environment setupbuilding educator confidencenavigating conversations with familieswhat true inclusion actually looks like in practiceThis episode is a reassuring reminder that educators are not failing - they just need the right support, guidance and tools.A must-listen for educators, leaders and anyone working alongside children with diverse needs.

On this episode of The Educators Edit, Bec sits down with Cheree and Gabby, both educators and mums, to unpack what it really looks like to finish a full day in the room and head straight into parenting.From the double shift and emotional load, to the guilt, the funny moments, and everything in between, this is an honest, relatable conversation many educators will see themselves in.With Mother’s Day around the corner, this episode is a chance to reflect on the unseen work educator mums do every single day and why it deserves to be recognised.A little tissue warning for this one, it gets emotional.Real talk, a few laughs, and plenty of “that is so me” moments.

What if the way we approach early childhood education isn’t the only way? 👀In this episode of The Educator’s Edit, we explore early learning practices from around the world that challenge our Australian perspective, from outdoor sleeping in Scandinavia to forest kindergartens, risky play, and real responsibility for young children in Japan.We unpack how different cultures approach independence, risk, routine, and community, and ask whether we might be over-controlling children’s environments.This episode will get you thinking about what’s truly “best practice”… and what we could be doing differently.

Your questions, our answers - Community Chat Confessions is BACK baby! 🎉 This week we're diving into calm corners, mixed-age room setups, nursery wish lists, portfolios that actually feel good to do, structuring your kindy room and having an honest chat about burnout in the sector. No gatekeeping here, just good vibes and real talk! 💜 

Let’s be honest - first aid training can feel repetitive. But what if it didn’t have to be? In this episode, Nick from Engage First Aid shares how making training engaging, practical, and even a little fun can completely change how educators respond in real emergencies. From CPR confidence to teaching kids life-saving skills, this conversation is all about first aid that actually sticks.

On this episode of The Educator's Edit, Bec chats with Talisha and Shannon to find out how they’ve settled into a new centre, turning first day nerves into safe, welcoming spaces and building routines that really work. Packed with stories, laughs, and practical insights, this episode is a must-listen for any educators navigating change and new beginnings.

Hello 2026 & Meet Bec 🎉We’re back and we’re starting 2026 with fresh energy and a new voice on the mic.In this first episode of the year, we officially welcome Bec as co-host of The Educators Edit. We chat about her journey in early childhood, what she loves about the sector, and much more.We also take a moment to reflect on how the early childhood sector is feeling as we head into a new year, the challenges educators are carrying, the conversations that need to be louder, and what we’re hopeful about for 2026.It’s light, honest, a little bit fun, and the perfect reset episode for educators heading into a new year.Whether you’re driving to work, setting up your room, or just needing a moment of connection, this one’s for you.Welcome to 2026. We’re so glad you’re here. 

It’s our final episode of 2025, and we’re wrapping up the year with real talk, big feelings and a whole lot of reflection.We chat through the highs, lows, laughs and lessons from the year that was, plus what we’re leaving behind and what we’re carrying into 2026. We also share two major news updates that will shape the next chapter of the pod… 👀See you in 2026 ✨

Christmas in early childhood = magic, mess, laughter, and LOTS of glitter. We talk festive setups, inclusive ideas, sensory activities, and how to keep December joyful (for educators too!). A feel-good episode to end the year.

In this episode of The Educators Edit, Cass sits down with Centre Director Holly and Area Manager Rebecca to unpack TGA’s brand new Educational Program Professional Development framework - a major shift in the way educators plan, document, and reflect.Together, they explore how The Grove Mission, Values, Theories, and the Reggio Emilia Approach now work in harmony to shape richer learning environments and more intentional practice.From moving beyond educator-led experiences to embracing environment-led play, to understanding learning as an ongoing journey, not a destination, this episode dives into the heart of what it means to nurture children through meaningful, authentic documentation. 

Jackie and Cass are back in the studio with special guest Bec for another round of Community Chat Confessions — and this one delivers.The trio dive into your real stories from the floor: the relatable moments, the unexpected twists, and the things only an educator would understand. It’s an easy, fun chat with plenty of “oh yep, that tracks” energy.Grab a coffee, plug in, and hang out with us for a feel-good episode that’s all about the highs, the mess, and the magic of early childhood.

This week on The Educators Edit, we chat with Heni - a resident superstar at TGA, renowned for her incredible table set-ups and play-based experiences. 🌟With over five years at TGA, Heni’s joyful, child-led approach inspires curiosity and creativity in children while empowering educators to see the magic in everyday play.

Cass is back after a 10-week prac as part of her Bachelor of Education (Primary, Birth–12 years) majoring in Early Childhood - and she’s spilling it all. From first-day nerves to classroom wins (and a few caffeine-fuelled moments), Cass and Tiana unpack what prac is really like.Whether you’re prepping for your own placement or guiding a student teacher, this episode brings real talk, laughs, and lessons from the classroom.

Did you know there’s new free national training available for educators on navigating allergies in early childhood education? In this episode, we unpack the growing prevalence of food allergies, their impact on children and families, and practical strategies educators can use to build safe, inclusive environments. Whether you’re new to the sector or a seasoned professional, you’ll find insights to help you better support children with allergies in your care.  ✨Show Notes & Resources:https://heas.health.vic.gov.au/training/managing-allergies-and-other-dietary-requirements-in-childrens-education-and-care/https://foodallergytraining.org.au/https://thesector.com.au/2025/08/11/free-national-training-launched-to-support-allergy-safe-nutritious-food-in-ecec/https://myfoodallergyfriends.com/

We've dropped a special episode for the biggest event in our calendar to celebrate all things ECE… and most importantly, EDUCATORS!

This week on The Educators Edit, we’re celebrating Speech Pathology Week with a special guest! The girls are joined by Ben Mason, our very own speech pathologist from The Grove Academy, to dive into all things speech - from bilingualism myths, to the do’s and don’ts of speech support, and plenty more along the way. Grab a cuppa and tune in for an insightful (and fun) chat you won’t want to miss!

Book Week is here, and it’s time to dive into adventure! We’re talking about why Book Week matters, sharing our favourite book picks for every age, and exploring creative ways to celebrate with children. Plus, we’ve got plenty of ideas to spark imagination, bring stories to life, and turn every page into a mini adventure in your centre!

Mid-Year Break Playlist: For the Hardworking Hearts of Early Ed You've spent the first half of the year shaping little minds, wiping little noses, and juggling it all with heart and hustle. Now it's your turn. This playlist is made just for our incredible early education crew: a mix of uplifting tunes, laid-back beats, and sing-alongs (with no puppets in sight). Put your feet up, press play, and enjoy the pause, you've earned every second.Check out the playlist here:https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4u29NcFD0dMpzQdwmFyZxJ?si=9fa2bb100e204320

It’s the halfway point of the year, and Jackie, Tiana, and Cass are hitting pause to reflect, reassess, and realign. In this honest and lighthearted chat, the trio revisit their 2025 goals, celebrate the wins, laugh at the lessons, and share what’s shifting as they move into the second half of the year. Whether you’re ticking boxes or just treading water, this episode is your reminder that growth looks different for everyone—and that the check-in matters just as much as the check-off.

In this special NAIDOC Week edition of TEE, we’re joined by Belinda from Freshwater Education – a passionate advocate for empowering early childhood educators to embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives with confidence, authenticity, and heart. Together, we explore what it means to move beyond tokenism, the significance of this year’s NAIDOC theme “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”, and how educators can honour First Nations culture in everyday practice – not just during NAIDOC Week, but all year round.

In this powerful episode, Jackie, Cass & Tiana explore what it means to truly safeguard children in early education. We unpack your role as a Mandatory Reporter in NSW, how to recognise red flags, and what the 2025 NQF changes mean for child-safe practice.We also share practical steps, support contacts, and expert insights to help educators take confident, informed action.🔔 Content warning: This episode discusses child abuse and may be distressing for some listeners.Support & Reporting (NSW):📞 Child Protection Helpline – 132 111📞 Lifeline – 13 11 14📞 NSW Mental Health Line – 1800 011 511🔗 reporter.childstory.nsw.gov.au 👩‍🏫 Follow child safety advocate Kristi McVee:Instagram: @‌kristimcveeFacebook: Kristi McVee – Child Safety AdvocateTikTok: @‌tiktokcop81Website: cape-au.com/links

In this candid and comedic episode of The Educators Edit, the team reunites to unpack the myths and misinformation still lurking in the Early Childhood Education industry. From laminated learning and sleep myths to toxic productivity and generic stereotypes, no piece of “ECE propaganda” is safe. With real talk, laughs, and a few confessions, this episode reminds educators to question the status quo - and maybe skip the overpriced matcha.

In our second chat with the incredible Dr Red Ruby Scarlet, we take a deep dive into the EYLF – and who better to guide us than one of its very own co-authors? Listen now and "eduCATe" yourself on the framework that guides everything we do.

In this episode, we dive into all things sensory — from how to create meaningful sensory experiences in your early learning environment to managing the inevitable mess! We kick things off with a fun "What's in the Box?" challenge, exploring taste, sound, and touch in the most unpredictable ways. Then we get real about the joys and chaos of sensory play in early childhood settings: what works, what flops, and how to plan effectively. Plus, we chat about identifying sensory preferences and aversions in children, how to support overwhelmed educators, and the importance of collaborating with families to create sensory-friendly classrooms. Whether you're new to sensory play or looking to fine-tune your approach, this episode has you covered. 

In this episode, Tiana, Cass, and Jackie – chat about how AI is evolving in the early childhood education space. They take a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about the tech they used back in the day and compare it to the smart tools we’re seeing pop up in centres today. It’s a lighthearted yet insightful convo about how far we’ve come, and how embracing change can actually make our jobs easier, not harder. And who knows what’s next for AI in our sector?

In this episode, we hand the mic to one of our very own — Emily! From her very first day in early childhood to where she is now, Emily shares the real, raw, and rewarding moments of her journey in the sector. We talk challenges, changes, her absolute favourite parts of the job, and what she hopes the future of early education looks like. It’s part check-in, part celebration, and all heart.

🎙 Community Page Confessions  In this episode, we kick things off with a DM from one of our amazing listeners asking, "How can we shout out and appreciate educators throughout the year?" From affirmation envelopes to face masks in the staffroom, and even vending machines full of Red Bulls — we share all the real-life ideas happening in centres to boost morale and build community.Then it’s on to our favourite segment – Community Page Confessions! We dive into: 🚪 How to step into an Assistant Director role 📚 Must-have 3–5 room resources (edible slime, anyone?) 🦎 And a wild "rent-a-pet" program that we’re officially obsessed with.This episode is packed with laughs, lived experience, and supportive advice from educators who get it.

Get ready for an episode bursting with energy, creativity, and a little bit of theatre! This week on The Educator’s Edit, we chat with the one and only Dr. Red Ruby Scarlet about the magic of creativity in early childhood education. From embracing the arts in your teaching to finding confidence in your professional identity, Red shares her wisdom with a signature splash of flair. Whether you’re an educator looking for inspiration or just love a good, colourful conversation, this episode is sure to leave you feeling empowered and excited about the work we do!

The Four Corners exposé sent shockwaves through the early childhood education sector, uncovering alarming cases of neglect, abuse, and concerns around profit-driven childcare. In this episode of The Educator’s Edit, we break down the findings, separate fact from fear, and dive into what really needs to change. Pour yourself a cup of tea, and tune in!

In this special episode, we hand over the mic to a Year 10 student with big dreams of working in early childhood education. Curious and full of questions, she’s here to interview us!  From exploring the paths to get into the industry to uncovering the variety of roles available, Alana digs into the hows, whys, and whats of a career in early childhood education. But it’s not all serious! Expect some laugh-out-loud moments as she asks us the funny (and maybe awkward) questions. This is a refreshing and candid conversation that’ll inspire future educators while giving a heartfelt look at why this career is so rewarding.  Get ready for a unique perspective and a whole lot of fun! 

Did you know that in Australia, over 97% of early childhood educators are female? This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the incredible women shaping the industry—from iconic figures like Princess Diana to the everyday heroes in our lives. Plus, we build our dream team, share our favourite female-led movies, and reveal which legendary woman we’d love to have dinner with. Grab your tea and join the chat!

What if the best toys aren't toys at all? In this episode, we sit down with Quill from Junkyard Rascals to explore the world of loose parts play—where imagination knows no bounds, and what’s considered junk is reimagined as treasure.From trampoline ring “stadiums” to mannequin legs, learn how unstructured play with everyday items fosters creativity, problem-solving, and a sense of independence in young minds. Tune in and discover the joy of turning the ordinary into the extraordinary!

Want to make the most of your next networking event? In this episode, we’re spilling our top networking tips to help early childhood educators build meaningful connections with ease!With TGA Sip & Social just around the corner, we’re sharing insights on how to break the ice, start great conversations, and make networking feel effortless (and fun!). Whether you're a networking pro or a first-timer, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you connect with confidence.

The Educators Edit: Episode 4 - Community Confessions In The Educators Edit Episode 4, we dive into the world of community confessions. Educators share their behind-the-scenes stories, from the funny and heartwarming moments to the challenges that come with working in early childhood education. Get ready for candid reflections, real-life experiences, and a few laughs along the way as we discuss what makes this career so rewarding, despite the tough moments. Tune in for an honest conversation about the highs and lows of being an educator.

We’re kicking off 2025 with tips to help you thrive (not just survive)! We create a special audio time capsule to reflect on next year, share self-care and wellness practices, and explore how to step into the new year feeling balanced and inspired. Have a listen, and let’s make 2025 your best year yet! 🎙

The Educator's Edit: Episode 2 - Feliz Navi-Done: Wrapping Up 2024Pour yourself a cup of Christmas cheer and join us in our second and final episode of the year. We dive into the ins and outs of 2024 before setting our sights on 2025 with some big goals and festive Christmas plans. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok @theeducatorsedit, and join us as we spill the TEA on all things ECE!

The Educator's Edit: Episode 1 - Meet the Gals!Welcome to our first episode! 🎉 Get to know your hosts, hear what’s coming on the pod, and enjoy some fun rapid-fire Q&A.Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok @theeducatorsedit, and join us as we spill the TEA on all things ECE!