Early childhood education sets the stage for lifelong learning, development, and health. Research shows that the first five years are critical for cognitive, social, and emotional growth. During this period, children absorb lessons not only from formal education but also from their environment and community. By integrating sustainability into early learning, we cultivate a generation that values the planet and understands its interconnectedness.
Sustainability isn’t just about the environment; it’s also about creating vibrant, resilient communities. Our Early Learning program emphasises community involvement that helps children understand their role within a larger context.
By emphasising sustainability and community engagement in Early Learning, we are not just shaping individual children; we’re fostering a movement. Children who learn these values early on are more likely to carry them into adulthood, becoming informed citizens and leaders who prioritize the health of the planet and their communities.
Educators and caregivers play a crucial role in this journey. They weave sustainability into everyday lessons and create environments that promote exploration and inquiry. By modelling sustainable practices, they demonstrate the importance of caring for the environment and community. Each of our centres also have recycling drop off areas, book libraries for preloved books, and community pantries. We also have seed libraries, create worm tea, offer lemons and limes from our trees, collect used batteries and plastic bag tags…the list goes on!!
Let’s plant the seeds today for a thriving tomorrow—one child, one community and one planet at a time.