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I design and deliver early childhood PD workshops for Educators and Teachers in Regional Victoria.

26/03/2025

I reflect on everything. Seriously. It’s actually quite exhausting for my little old brain.
The number of things I mentally unpack in a single day could fill a year's worth of staff meeting agendas.

Was my drop-off too quick or too long?

Did my boy eat enough to get him to morning tea?

Am I giving my first child more than my second?

Why is my playroom not Pinterest-worthy?

My son’s manners must mean I’m doing something right…

My daughter’s determination is going to be interesting to watch play out

How can I be more present this afternoon?

And that’s before I even finish my first coffee. 😳

We talk about critical reflection like it’s a post-mortem of our worst moments. But what if it was also about noticing the good stuff?

What made a child light up today?
What did I do that made my job easier?
What moment felt right? Felt easier and why?

Reflection isn’t about fixing—it’s about growing. And I’ve had a bit of an epiphany… probably a hundred years too late but hey what the hell.

What comes naturally to me—reflection, noticing, tweaking—doesn’t always feel easy for everyone. So I’m going to be doing a lot more in this space. Expect heaps of practical tips to make reflection feel useful, not overwhelming.

If you want more of this- let me know!

24/03/2025

✔ Room setup, tick
✔ Looks great, tick
✔ Children arrive, tick
✔ Big mess, tick

It can feel disheartening when the spaces we design for children is quickly undone. Resetting is part of our role (yep, we have a lots of jobs) , but how often do we pause to critically reflect rather than just putting everything back where it started?

Maybe the way children use (or don’t use) the space is telling us something. 🤷‍♀️

Next time you reset, take a moment to reflect:

⚪️Are children engaging with this space as expected? If not, what adjustments could support their play?

⚪️What message does this environment send about children’s agency and capability?

⚪️Do the materials invite exploration, or are could we be unintentionally limiting possibilities?

⚪️Am I actively observing how children use the space and making changes based on their cues?

⚪️What small tweaks could make this space more inclusive, inspiring, or engaging?

⚪️Does the duration of experiences support all children, providing predictability without limiting engagement?

Every reset is an opportunity for reflection.
Save this post for a quick list of reflection prompts.

13/03/2025

Love these posts-

So yeah that’s my real learning. The real growth. Critical reflection has taught me that “great” educators aren’t the ones with all the answers—they’re the ones who keep asking questions.

What would your younger self say to you today? And what would you say back? ⬇️

11/03/2025

“But they love it once I’m gone…”

You just spent ten minutes peeling a sobbing child off your leg, only to hear they were “totally fine “ 5 minutes later. So, what gives? 🤔

Separation anxiety isn’t about hating their centre/preschool—it’s about transitioning to it. And transitions take time. Think of yourself starting a new job or moving to a new place. Saying goodbye to your person is NEVER easy.

So, let’s be real here- there is absolutely nothing natural at all about walking away from your child when they’re crying with someone you barely know. It’s full-on gut-wrenching.

And while some children adjust quickly, others need more time, more connection, and more security before it starts to feel even a little bit okay. (AKA safe)

Instead of just waiting it out, partner with your service and try:

•Predictable cues – A silly handshake, or special promise they can hold onto such as “See you at afternoon tea and we will go get a milkshake. This promise can give them something they can look forward to and hold onto.

•A ‘job’ – Give them a daily task- like holding a special letter in their pocket until pick-up.

•Their person ❤️Work with your service and child to help them build trust with one educator first. A secure bond can eventually lead to confidence with others.

😌 Gentle goodbyes – Tears might still come, but trust takes time. Check-in shortly after you leave.

And if it still feels off? Trust your gut.
Shorter days longer stays together, or a slower transition can help. There’s no rush. Feeling safe comes first.

Save this for the days when goodbyes feel impossible.

Finally, I’m right here with you, I supported families for years with this. Now it’s my time to be the parent and it’s not easy. We got this Mummas/Papas. X

04/03/2025

Save this for later 👍

Why Magnetic Tiles are the best resource for your service or home…….

They offer a range of learning opportunities;

•STEM Learning – Problem-solving, balance, and engineering in action.

•Fine Motor Skills – Every snap, twist, and stack builds hand strength.

•Resilience & Patience – Towers fall, kids rebuild. That’s learning.

•Social Play – Teamwork, turn-taking, and less toy snatching.

•Deep Engagement – Independent play that actually lasts.

Save this for when you need a variety of ways to set them up.

Photos by

ed
fun.play

MagneticTiles

26/02/2025

What are aesthetic spaces for children?

Aesthetic choices in early learning spaces aren’t just about making things look nice and pretty- they shape how children and educators feel, engage, and explore.

A well-designed space speaks to the senses. A simple dollhouse with natural tones, soft textures, and thoughtful placement isn’t just visually appealing—it invites calm, creativity, and connection.

✨ Sight – Use neutral, earthy tones to create a grounding environment.
✨ Touch – Mix textures like wood, fabric, and woven materials for a sensory-rich space.
✨ Sound – Reduce background noise where possible; less clutter often means less chaos.
✨ Smell – Natural materials bring warmth—consider wooden toys and fresh air over artificial scents.

A beautiful space isn’t about perfection; it’s about creating an environment that feels good to be in.

What’s important to you?
Want to unpack your environment, contact me today for a workshop on all things- set ups.

Play space by Corowa Preschool

25/02/2025

Thanks .kind for the idea. Leave your truths below, no judgement here 🤦‍♀️😂

16/02/2025

🚨Calling all Early Childhood Educators🚨

Professional development should be more than just a box to tick—it should be meaningful, practical, and actually make a difference in your daily practice.

That’s why I offer face-to-face PD within 1.5 hours of Yarrawonga (and online options too), designed to be engaging, reflective, and tailored to what your team actually needs.

Options to suit your team:

✅ The Tailored Teaching Package – Custom PD sessions, observations, follow ups and targeted support to embed real change
✅ One-off workshops on a range of ECEC topics
✅ Training Needs Analysis to uncover your team’s strengths, gaps, and next steps

Educator favourites include:
✨ STP Lens Workshop – How social, temporal, and physical environments shape children’s learning
✨ Group Times That Work – Creating meaningful, child-led group times
✨ Play Schemas Unpacked – Understanding how children learn through play

With 25 years of experience, I’ve worked alongside educators in centres and preschools, supporting them with real-life strategies linked to the EYLF and NQF.

📩 Reply to this post to chat about how I can support your team in 2025!

Jem Findlay
Create4Me Early Ed Workshops

14/02/2025

If those quotes made you think, yeah, so what? then I’ll either try to convince you of a different perspective—or maybe I’m not your person, and that’s okay. 🤷‍♀️

Much like my thoughts on forced apologies, I feel the same way about pressuring children into using manners.

When we dig into the why behind teaching manners, the virtues we truly want children to embody are things like gratitude, kindness, appreciation, contentment, humility, and recognition of others’ efforts.

So, when we demand or withhold until a child says “please” or “thank you,” I invite you to consider: does this teach those values—or does it teach compliance and empty formality?

Now, to clarify, I’m not saying we should ignore manners entirely or never role model polite language. But the focus should shift to the emotion and virtue behind the word, not just the word itself.

For example:

•When serving a child lunch, try saying “thank you” yourself as you hand over the bowl.

•When a child hands you a toy or painting, respond with your own heartfelt gratitude.

•Role model these exchanges naturally in your interactions with other adults in front of children.

By practising gratitude and respect from day one, children will learn both the language and the emotion behind it.

And just to add some proof: 👇
I’m not trying to brag but my toddler has some of the best manners I’ve ever seen, and my husband and I have never demanded a “thank you.” We simply modelled what we valued.

Finally, I’ll admit that I have definitely made requests like these in my time. I’m not perfect but I’ve reflected and I’ve grown.

So, what do you think? Are you with me? 💜

11/02/2025

Okay, so definitely not a Pinterest-worthy play setup, but guaranteed fun! A basket of instruments? Instant engagement for all ages.

Let’s talk music—I recently heard a local school doesn’t have a music program, and I was shook. Music carried me through high school; without it, I don’t know how I would have coped.

In early childhood, music isn’t just fun—it’s foundational. It supports rhythm, movement, language, and emotional expression. Howard Gardner even identified Musical Intelligence as a key way kids learn, linking music to listening, emotions, language, and movement.

So, how do you include music in your program?

A few quick ideas:

🎵 Musical transitions – Sing instructions instead of speaking them (instant engagement!).
🎵 Body percussion – Clap, stomp, and pat rhythms together—no instruments needed.
🎵 Make up songs – Let kids invent lyrics to familiar tunes (or create their own!).
🎵 Choreograph their own dances – Play different music styles and let kids create movements to match.

Drop your favourite music moments below—let’s swap ideas!

Also, thanks .meplay for the instruments!

05/02/2025

🤦‍♀️Imagine this: You’ve missed your flight after months of planning or you’ve just realised your car needs a service that you really can’t afford!

You’re overwhelmed, stressed, and maybe even angry.

Now picture someone standing over you saying, “You really need to calm down and think this through.” Would that help??????
Ahhh I think not.

In moments like this, you’d want someone to see your feelings—to validate them, empathise with your situation, and maybe just let you have a moment. You’d need connection and understanding before you could even think about solutions.

Now, think about a child in the middle of what we often call a “tantrum or “meltdown”.
Their rational brain (just like yours in that stressful moment) is offline. They’re overwhelmed with emotions and unable to process reasoning or instructions.

So, next time this happens, remember: connect first always!
Let children work through those big feelings with your support—whether that’s through a calming presence, a soothing tone, or simply sitting nearby. Once they’re feeling calm and regulated, then you can talk about what happened.

My motto: Always consider how you would feel, and apply the same level of respect and care you’d like to receive. Because big feelings need big compassion.❤️

02/02/2025

Little man helping out with the weekly shop whilst also taking out a few ankles! 🤪

So, how do we build independent children without “demanding” they do chores….

Keep reading….

If you have ever found yourself saying, “If you don’t do this, then…?” You are also likely to be banging your head against the wall. Whilst It’s a tempting phrase it often creates resistance instead of cooperation.

Demanding jobs from children can feel like a battle while promoting independence inspires them to WANT to help out.

Why? 🧐
Because children thrive when they feel capable, valued, and connected. When we shift from “You HAVE to” to “Let’s do this together” or “Can you help me solve this?” we’re fostering life skills instead of having those horrible power struggles.

A couple of tips that might help…

💜Role model- children copy what they see! Tidy up while chatting about your actions, like “I’m putting the blocks in the box so they’re ready for next time.” (Gets my son every time)

💜Offer choice- “Do you want to put out the plates or cutlery ready for dinner?” Even the selection of which fork he will use can assist with mealtime battles.

💜Make it FUN- Turn cleanups into a good time by using songs and dance. Sometimes we even push his ladder over to sink and let him go nuts.

💜Acknowledge ALL efforts- Celebrate contributions: “Wow, the table looks amazing with your help!”

When we focus on guiding rather than demanding, children feel empowered and proud of their efforts. 👏

👉 What’s your go-to way to encourage kids to help out? Let’s share ideas 👇

23/01/2025

In all honesty, I do actually LOVE a good group time. 🤪

A group time that is adaptable, engaging, fun, non-compulsory, flexible and one where children’s contributions are valued just as much as adults.

P.S. Just because 16 kids instead of the 20 in attendance chose to join in doesn't mean it’s not successful.

P.S.S Don’t forget to reflect on your interactions in the group time, if you aren’t having fun, they probably aren’t either!

#

16/01/2025

Have you ever set up a play space you’re happy with, but something feels missing? 🧐

Maybe it looks a little bare? Have you considered adding more natural elements? 🌱

Nature in play spaces sparks curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving. When you bring in materials like plants, stones, and wood, you’re giving children opportunities to connect with their environment, explore, and engage in open-ended play.

Check out these stunning images from —nature
She creates play spaces that are magical!

Like this post if you’d love to see more “Pretty Play Spaces” from around the globe! I’ll be sharing new play spaces regularly.

12/01/2025

Too much time on the iPad, wallets feeling a little empty? Just remember there are some good cheapish play ideas that don’t require a trip to Kmart!

Nature hunts to collect leaves and sticks, building secret fairy houses, digging in the dirt to make “pretend soup,” or whipping up creations with homemade playdough—these activities are bursting with opportunities for exploration, creativity, and connection.

Through messy, sensory play, children test ideas, solve problems, and engage their imagination, developing confidence as learners. They also build a connection with nature, fostering a sense of care for their environment.

Other budget-friendly ideas? Try stick painting, rock stacking, or making your own musical instruments from recycled materials!

👉 Got a favourite low-cost activity? Share it below!

06/01/2025

An anynonomous post in a forum. 📝

Let’s unpack this one together……

First off, the secret sauce to a “successful” group time is … drumroll … YOU.

So, let’s reflect:

🫥Are you engaged, or … do you kinda suck?

🫥Are you excited to be leading this moment, or low-key annoyed because you’d rather be setting up lunch or taking a tea break?

🫥Are your co-educators supporting you during group time, or is this their chance to “make beds” while you’re left asking little Jonny to sit down five times, losing your spot in the story so often the kids have no idea what the book is even about?

🫥Most importantly, are you facilitating the group time or truly being part of it?

Now, here’s the thing: I personally can’t stand group times that are:

1.Super structured – you know, rigid in time, place, props, and what song must be sung next.

2.Left to one educator to “keep the kids still” while others do something else (unless, of course, it’s a genuine emergency!).

3.Solely educator-driven with no input, collaboration, or spontaneity from the children.

The group times I love, on the other hand, are:

1.Flexible – adaptable to the vibe of the group and the day.

2.Collaborative – where children are active participants, not passive listeners.

3.Creative and dynamic – think storytelling that invites their ideas, songs where they choose the next verse, or activities that flow from what they’ve shown genuine interest in.

So, here’s your challenge:

Take a good look at your group times. If they’re falling flat, maybe it’s time to rethink your approach. Are you engaging with children … or just “following the routine?”
Love to hear your thoughts 🧐🧐🧐

24/12/2024

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

I aim to be MIA over the next few weeks as one thing about having your own business is thah you don’t really switch off. I’m in centres from 13th Jan, so excited to be delivering my first workshop for 2025 on all things pkay spaces.

Thanks for the love and support from one little small business mumma doing her best to support regional businesses welt learning centres and kindergartens.

P.S whilst I advocate for process art, every now and then I make an exception. 🎄

15/12/2024

I’d say, this one’s worth sharing!

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Whether you’re following my pages as a parent or educator, slowing down to connect with children can be a tough. For some of us, it feels super natural to dive into their world and be fully present. For others, it can feel really awkward, forced, or like there’s a never-ending to-do list of the “what’s next” pulling us away. I'm here to say, that’s actually okay. 🥰 The key is to be fair to yourself and start where you are. These moments don’t have to be “perfect” or long—they just need to happen. If these moments don’t come naturally, this is your chance to reflect and be honest with yourself and then try setting yourself a small goal. Here’s a couple of tips that might help: •Follow children’s lead. •Be present. Turn off distractions, even briefly. •Slow your tempo. Match their pace and let go of the rushy feeling. •Celebrate your effort. •Be patient with yourself. 👩‍👦Every little moment of connection counts. Clips like this one aren’t just playing—this little guy has just been through major surgery so interactions like this build trust, joy, and lifelong memories. Thank you to my good friend Han from @littlelightsdanceandplay for being so special👏 #childcarecoach #ecec #earlylearning #regionalvictoria #earlychildhoodeducation #learningthroughplay #workshopsforeducators #trainingregional #professionaldevelopment #eylf #intentionalteaching #interactions #qa5

Okay, if it’s the last thing you do today, please, sound on!!!! My son said it best; “Saving water is important, I love saving water!” But in all seriousness, if my son and his cute voice grabbed your attention, it’s for the greater good! We know sustainability in ECEC is non-negotiable. In fact, it’s mentioned a mere 80 times throughout the EYLF and 100 times in the NQS. So, whether sustainable practices are your passion or not, we must find a way to include them and embed them in our daily practices. Part 1- Let's talk about water conservation! 💧 Here are some simple tips to help you incorporate water conservation into your service: 1. Role Model and teach “water mindfulness” by showing children how to turn off taps. 2. Reuse water by encouraging children to save rainwater or leftover drinking water to water the garden. 3. Use recycled water for veggie patches and involve children in the process 4. Start water-saving audits for the children where they become ‘water detectives’ to help identify and fix leaks. They can record water usage to promote awareness. 5. Use timers for water play activities. 6. Read water-saving stories such as “Tiddalik the Frog” – A traditional Aboriginal story about a greedy frog who drinks all the water, teaching the value of sharing and water conservation. Anything you can add to the list? Let’s help each other. #WaterConservation #EYLF #NQF #SustainableECEC #SaveWater #teachingsustainability #EarlyChildhoodEducation #sustainable #qa3 #childcare #childcareprofessional #ECE #ECEC #childcareteacher #childcaretraining

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