Everything we do at Goodstart Early Learning is about putting children first. We have a unique approach to the way we work, which is based on our Goodstart Practice Guide and its ISTEP framework.
The Guide is used by every educator in every centre throughout Australia, although the way in each implements the practices and applies the ISTEP framework, will be unique to their local context, and the children and families in their centre.
ISTEP is a framework which helps our educators plan and observe their daily practices. There are five components, each crucial to early learning outcomes:
Individual child’s abilities and interests are key
At Goodstart Early Learning, we place great importance on offering our children routines which can help bring children pleasure and create a sense of security. But we also understand that it’s essential to take each child’s individual ability and interests into account.
Our daily routines encourage children to become active participants in their eating, sleeping and care routines, such as applying sunscreen. This gives children the opportunity to make their own decisions and self-manage their day.
Small groups versus large groups
Your child will enjoy one-on-one nurturing but we also like to offer a combination of small and large group activities.
Firstly, research shows children’s learning is best supported during focused small-group times, guided by educators. Small groups provide your child the chance to form friendships and peer-connections and extend their learning.
Secondly, large group experiences may also be created to build a sense of community with the other groups in the centre, such as between the toddler and kindergarten rooms.
In our next article, we’ll talk about the experiences your child will have for learning through play at Goodstart Early Learning.
The Guide is used by every educator in every centre throughout Australia, although the way in each implements the practices and applies the ISTEP framework, will be unique to their local context, and the children and families in their centre.
ISTEP is a framework which helps our educators plan and observe their daily practices. There are five components, each crucial to early learning outcomes:
- Interactions and relationships
- Space, resources and materials
- Time, routines and rituals
- Experiences for learning
- Planning, documentation and evaluation
Individual child’s abilities and interests are key
At Goodstart Early Learning, we place great importance on offering our children routines which can help bring children pleasure and create a sense of security. But we also understand that it’s essential to take each child’s individual ability and interests into account.
Our daily routines encourage children to become active participants in their eating, sleeping and care routines, such as applying sunscreen. This gives children the opportunity to make their own decisions and self-manage their day.
Small groups versus large groups
Your child will enjoy one-on-one nurturing but we also like to offer a combination of small and large group activities.
Firstly, research shows children’s learning is best supported during focused small-group times, guided by educators. Small groups provide your child the chance to form friendships and peer-connections and extend their learning.
Secondly, large group experiences may also be created to build a sense of community with the other groups in the centre, such as between the toddler and kindergarten rooms.
In our next article, we’ll talk about the experiences your child will have for learning through play at Goodstart Early Learning.