What is Early Learning Years Framework (EYLF) in childcare?

Kynd Montessori: Blending the Best of Montessori and EYLF for Exceptional Early Childhood Education 

At Kynd Montessori, we understand the importance of the early years in a child’s life for their development and future success. That’s why we have meticulously designed a curriculum that merges the best aspects of the Montessori Method with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), ensuring a comprehensive and enriching educational experience for our students. 

What is the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) in Childcare? 

In childcare, the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) is a national curriculum framework developed by the Australian Government to guide early childhood education and care providers in delivering high-quality programs for children from birth to five years of age. 

The EYLF is built on the following key principles: 

Themes of the EYLF 

• Belonging: Children feel a sense of belonging when they are connected to their family, community, culture, and place. 

• Being: Children are encouraged to be present and engaged in the here and now, embracing their unique qualities and experiences. 

• Becoming: Children are on a journey of continuous learning and development, shaping their identity and capabilities. 

 The Elements of the EYLF 

The EYLF consists of five key elements that work together to support children’s learning and development: 

1. Principles: The overarching values and beliefs that guide early childhood education and care practices. 
2. Practices: The everyday interactions, experiences, and teaching strategies that educators use to support children’s learning. 
3. Learning Outcomes: The specific skills, knowledge, and dispositions that children are expected to develop and demonstrate. 
4. Curriculum Decision-Making: The process of planning, implementing, and evaluating curriculum to meet the needs and interests of children. 
5. Assessment for Learning: The ongoing process of gathering and analysing information to inform teaching and support children’s learning. 

What are the EYLF Principles? 

The EYLF is underpinned by five key principles that guide early childhood education and care practices: 

1. Secure, respectful, and reciprocal relationships 
2. Partnerships with families 
3. High expectations and equity 
4. Respect for diversity 
5. Ongoing learning and reflective practice 

What are the EYLF Practices? 

The EYLF outlines eight key practices that educators can use to support children’s learning and development: 

• Holistic approaches 

• Responsiveness to children 

• Learning through play 

• Intentional teaching 

• Learning environments 

• Cultural competence 

• Continuity of learning and transitions 

• Assessment for learning
  

What are the EYLF Outcomes? 

In childcare, the EYLF identifies five key learning outcomes that children are expected to develop and demonstrate: 

• Children have a strong sense of identity 

• Children are connected with and contribute to their world 

• Children have a strong sense of wellbeing 

• Children are confident and involved learners 

• Children are effective communicators
  

The EYLF and The National Quality Framework 

The EYLF is a key component of the National Quality Framework (NQF), which is the national system for regulating and improving the quality of early childhood education and care services in Australia. 

NQF sets out seven quality areas that early childhood education and care services must meet, and the EYLF provides a framework for educators to plan, implement, and evaluate curriculum and learning experiences that support children’s development and learning. 

How the EYLF is Implemented by Childcare Providers and in Early Childhood Education 

Childcare providers and early childhood education services that adopt the EYLF are required to develop and implement curriculum and learning experiences that align with the principles, practices, and learning outcomes outlined in the framework. 

Our practices as educators are deeply rooted in the understanding that each child’s early years are pivotal for their development and future learning. In alignment with the EYLF, Kynd Montessori prioritises creating learning environments that are not only responsive to the interests and needs of each child but also enriched with play-based learning opportunities that foster holistic development. 

This may involve: 

• Designing learning environments that are responsive to children’s interests and needs 

• Incorporating play-based learning opportunities that support children’s holistic development 

• Fostering strong partnerships with families and the local community 

• Engaging in ongoing reflection and evaluation to continuously improve the quality of the program
  

How Families Can Implement EYLF Within Their Child’s Education 

Families can also play an active role in supporting their child’s learning and development within the EYLF framework. This can include: 

• Communicating regularly with educators about their child’s interests, strengths, and needs 

• Participating in family-centred activities and events organised by the early childhood service 

• Incorporating EYLF-aligned learning experiences and practices into their home environment 

• Advocating for high-quality early childhood education and care services that align with the EYLF 

You can always chat with our educators about how you can integrate EYLF in to your home life as well at our childcare learning centre. 

The Future of the Early Years Learning Framework in Childcare

EYLF continues to be a vital component of the Australian early childhood education and care system, providing a comprehensive framework for delivering high-quality programs that support children’s holistic development and learning. 

As the early childhood education landscape evolves, EYLF is likely to undergo ongoing review and refinement to ensure it remains relevant and responsive to the changing needs and priorities of children, families, and the broader community. 

Is EYLF the Same as Montessori? 

The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and the Montessori curriculum are not the same; they are complementary educational approaches. The difference between EYLF and Montessori lies in their implementation: while EYLF in childcare outlines broad developmental outcomes for children’s growth, Montessori complements these with a distinct educational environment, tailored to nurture a child’s holistic development and potential. 

Kynd Montessori: Blending the Best of Montessori and EYLF 

At Kynd Montessori, we are committed to providing an exceptional early childhood education experience that combines the best of the Montessori Method and EYLF. 

Our curriculum is designed to foster children’s natural curiosity, independence, and love of learning, while also aligning with the principles, practices, and learning outcomes of EYLF. 

We believe that by blending these two complementary approaches, we can create a nurturing, enriching environment that supports the holistic development of each child in our care. 

Through our Montessori-inspired learning materials, uninterrupted work cycles, and focus on hands-on, child-directed exploration, we empower children to take an active role in their own learning and development. 

At the same time, we incorporate the EYLF’s emphasis on play-based learning, social-emotional development, and fostering a strong sense of belonging, being, and becoming. 

Our highly trained educators work closely with families to develop personalised learning plans that cater to each child’s unique needs, interests, and abilities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential. 

We are proud to be a leader in the field of early childhood education, and we are committed to continuing to evolve and innovate our curriculum to provide the best possible learning experience for the children in our care.