From the shy wave at morning drop-off to the proud moment a child ties their shoes or shares a toy - early childhood is full of big emotions.
At Aussie Kindies Early Learning, we understand that emotional wellbeing is just as important as learning numbers or letters. That’s why we focus on helping children aged 0–5 feel safe, supported, and confident - every single day.
As we acknowledge World Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Day on 23 April, we’re shining a light on how quality child care plays a big role in helping children grow emotionally strong and ready for whatever life brings next.
Why Emotional Wellbeing Matters So Much in the Early Years
The early years are a time of enormous growth - not just physically, but emotionally too. Young children are learning how to make friends, express their feelings, and handle changes in their routines.
Research from Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child tells us that the emotional connections children form in their early years help shape their brains for future learning and mental health.
Children who are supported to develop their emotional skills are more likely to:
- Build strong, trusting relationships
- Cope with everyday changes and frustrations
- Communicate how they’re feeling
- Show kindness, empathy and confidence
The Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) also shows that children with strong emotional and social skills are better prepared for starting school - and beyond.
What Emotional Support Looks Like at Aussie Kindies
At Aussie Kindies, emotional wellbeing is part of the everyday experience - woven into the way we care, teach and connect with each child.
High-quality child care isn’t just about having a great curriculum (although we’ve got one of those too!). It’s about:
- Educators who genuinely know your child and respond to their unique personality
- Cooks who serve up warm, nourishing meals that help children feel at home
- Centre Managers and Assistant Centre Managers who create a strong sense of belonging for every child and family
- A focus on relationships, routines, and play-based learning that creates a calm, comforting environment
When children feel safe and supported, they’re more likely to try new things, express themselves confidently, and grow through life’s little challenges.
Building Resilience Through Everyday Moments
Emotional development isn’t a one-off lesson - it happens in the quiet, daily moments. Whether it’s supporting a child through a tricky goodbye, or helping a preschooler learn to share, our educators gently guide children through the ups and downs of growing up.
We support emotional wellbeing by:
- Encouraging children to name their feelings and express themselves
- Helping them work through friendship challenges with support
- Creating predictable routines that help reduce anxiety
- Using play to build empathy, confidence, and cooperation
- Celebrating effort, not just outcomes
For children aged 3–5, we also offer the Positive Living Skills program. This program introduces mindfulness, emotional language, and calming techniques in a fun, age-appropriate way - helping children learn to recognise and manage their feelings with confidence.
“Big feelings are part of growing up. Our job is to help children feel understood, supported, and proud of who they are.”
What You Can Do at Home
We know raising emotionally resilient kids is a team effort - and we’re here to work with you. Here are a few easy ways to support your child’s emotional wellbeing at home:
- Talk about emotions during everyday moments
- Read books together that explore feelings and relationships
- Keep routines consistent and comforting
- Offer hugs and reassurance during transitions
- Chat with your educators - we’re always happy to share strategies and support
Growing Together
This World Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Day, we’re proud to support children’s emotional growth through our Lifelong Learning Curriculum including our Positive Living Skills program - giving little ones the tools they need to build resilience, confidence, and strong relationships.
If you’d like to see how we support your child’s wellbeing every day, find your local Aussie Kindies centre and book a tour. We’d love to welcome you into our community.