Our Philosophy

It is our belief at Little Munchkins that we should be an extension to a loving homelike environment for all who use the Service. We also believe that we should acknowledge the Dharug and Gundungurra people and Elders past and present, who are the traditional custodians of this land where we live and play.

We strive daily to develop and maintain an open and supportive communication with all individuals and families that use or visit the Service.

We believe that sound relationships with families is central to ensuring continuity and progression in a child’s learning and ongoing development.

The learning environment is planned to embrace diversity and encourage a positive attitude toward gender, ethnicity, cultural diversity, individual family structure, difference in physical ability and the natural environment.

We embrace family grouping for many reasons, a few of which are:

  • children are encouraged to work at their own pace and pursue their interests and ideas individually or in co-operation with educators and/or their peers;
  • family grouping creates a larger, more fluent extended family to supplement today’s nuclear family;
  • children learn more effectively through the exchange of ideas and dialogue between educators and children of all ages. Children and educators are involved in co-operative open ended discovery and problem solving on a daily basis. Each child’s opinion is valued and respected;
  • language development is enhanced when younger children have accessible models such as older children;
  • social interactions are more passive, nurturing occurs more frequently. Peer rivalry and competitiveness is replaced more often by co-operation; and
  • the learning environment encourages children to develop awareness of self as an individual and a member of a group. Children are encouraged to develop empathy and concern for others. The educators provide a safe and secure environment that protects a child’s innocence at all times.

We also view the Service as a “Pre- School with longer hours”. The environment should incorporate stimulating, challenging materials and experiences (either planned or spontaneous) for children that are child directed as well as intentionally taught by all educators.

The Service’s Curriculum and Pedagogy is informed by the three interrelated elements of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) i.e. Principles, Practice and Learning Outcomes.

With these fundamental elements as the basis for our environment, children are empowered to become inquisitive, problem solvers and with an appreciation for diversity. It is our belief this will prepare them to be learners and contributors to the wider community for the future.

Our educators aim to maintain ongoing training and professional development. Through ongoing assessment and reflection on our actions and practices we are able to identify areas of strengths and areas that may require further development.

Our staff and educators are a great asset to the Service and we continue to ensure that their work environment is a safe and rewarding one.

Finally, it is our strongest belief that when you care for and nurture young children, all educators and staff members must maintain a healthy and positive sense of humour that is readily shared amongst themselves, the children and families.

Enrol your child now

Read More