Nest and Nurture Early Learning - Lindfield

At Little Amigos, we are committed to supporting each child’s unique learning journey by setting meaningful development goals, conducting thoughtful observations, and using ongoing evaluations to enhance their growth and learning experiences. Our approach is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) version 2 and follows the Early Childhood Planning Cycle, ensuring that each child receives individualized, intentional, and responsive learning opportunities.

Following the Early Childhood Planning Cycle to Foster Learning

We implement the Planning Cycle to guide our teaching and ensure children are progressing in a way that supports their interests, needs, and developmental milestones. This cycle includes:

1. Observing – Our educators carefully observe children during play and learning experiences, identifying their interests, strengths, and areas for growth. We use a variety of methods, such as learning stories, anecdotal records, photos, and videos to capture meaningful moments.
2. Documenting & Analysing – We record our observations and reflect on what they tell us about a child’s development. This helps us understand their learning style, emerging skills, and any challenges they may be facing.
3. Planning & Implementing – Based on our observations and analysis, we set developmentally appropriate goals and design engaging learning experiences that encourage exploration, problem-solving, and skill development. These experiences are aligned with the EYLF v2 outcomes and focus on key areas like pre-literacy, pre-numeracy, social-emotional skills, and cognitive development.
4. Reflecting & Evaluating – After implementing planned experiences, we assess their effectiveness by reflecting on how the children responded. Were they engaged? Did they meet their learning goals? If necessary, we adjust our approach to ensure continued growth and engagement.
5. Reviewing & Extending Learning – Learning is a continuous process, and we build upon previous experiences to extend children’s development further. This ensures that each child is always being challenged, supported, and encouraged in their journey.

Developing Individual Learning Goals

Each child is unique, and we create personalised learning goals in consultation with families that consider:

• The child’s interests – Engaging them in topics and activities they love.
• Developmental milestones – Supporting growth in key areas.
• Family input – Working together to ensure learning experiences are meaningful.
• Social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development – Taking a holistic approach to each child’s progress.

Observations: Understanding Each Child’s Progress

Observations help us track learning and tailor our teaching. We use:

• Anecdotal records & learning stories to capture real-life learning experiences.
• Photo & video documentation to reflect on children’s engagement.
• Checklists & assessment tools to track developmental progress.

Evaluations: Enhancing Learning Experiences

Our educators regularly evaluate learning experiences to ensure they are effective, engaging, and responsive to children’s needs. This includes:

• Reflecting on observations to adjust learning goals.
• Assessing teaching strategies to ensure best practices.
• Collaborating with families to align learning at home and in the centre.

Partnering with Families for Holistic Growth

We believe that learning is a collaborative effort between educators and families. We share progress through:

• Regular learning documentation & reports.
• Parent meetings & discussions.
• Encouraging family input in planning experiences.

At Little Amigos, we use the Planning Cycle to ensure each child’s learning is purposeful, engaging, and reflective of their unique journey. By observing, planning, implementing, and evaluating, we create a dynamic environment where every child can flourish, grow, and develop the skills they need for the future.

At Little Amigos, we are committed to providing a nurturing and engaging learning environment where children develop the skills, confidence, and curiosity needed for lifelong learning. Our educational programs are designed to support each child's individual growth while fostering creativity, resilience, and a love for discovery.

Our Learning Programs

1. Nursery Program from Birth to 2 Years

Our Nursery Program provides a warm and nurturing environment where our youngest learners feel safe, secure, and loved. We focus on:

• Sensory exploration – Engaging children in textures, sounds, and visual experiences to stimulate early development.
• Attachment & emotional security – Building strong, trusting relationships with caregivers to foster confidence and well-being.
• Early communication & language – Encouraging interactions through songs, gestures, and storytelling.
• Motor skill development – Supporting physical growth through tummy time, crawling, and movement activities.

2. Toddler Program from 2 to 3 Years

Our Toddler Program supports growing independence while nurturing social and cognitive development. We provide:

• Play-based learning experiences – Encouraging exploration and imagination through hands-on activities.
• Early language development – Expanding vocabulary through storytelling, group discussions, and interactive play.
• Sensory & creative play – Engaging in art, music, and movement to enhance creativity and self-expression.
• Social-emotional skills – Helping children develop turn-taking, sharing, and self-regulation in a supportive setting.

3. Preschool Program from 3 to 5 Years

Our Preschool Program prepares children for their transition to formal schooling by building essential foundational skills in a structured yet engaging environment. Here at Little Amigos we have segmented our rooms to cater for children aged 3-4 years, and 4-5 years. Key focus areas include:

• Pre-literacy & early writing – Encouraging letter recognition, phonemic awareness, and emergent writing skills.
• Pre-numeracy & problem-solving – Introducing counting, number concepts, sorting, and early mathematical reasoning.
• STEAM exploration – Engaging in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics through hands-on experiments and inquiry-based learning.
• Social & emotional learning – Encouraging confidence, resilience, and cooperative play.
• School readiness program – Developing self-help skills, routine-following, and early academic foundations for a smooth transition to primary school.

Additional Educational Programs

Language & Literacy Enrichment

We incorporate daily literacy experiences, storytelling, and group discussions to build strong language skills, communication confidence, and early reading enjoyment.

STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) Learning

Our STEAM activities encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving through hands-on experiments, building projects, and nature exploration.

Creative Arts & Music

We provide opportunities for children to express themselves through painting, drawing, dramatic play, music, and dance, fostering imagination and self-confidence.

Physical & Outdoor Play

Active play is essential for healthy development. Our programs include outdoor adventures, obstacle courses, and guided movement activities to enhance coordination, strength, and overall well-being.

Cultural & Community Connections

We celebrate diversity by incorporating multicultural experiences, inclusive practices, and community engagement opportunities into our programs, helping children develop an understanding and appreciation for different cultures.

At Little Amigo, we believe that learning should be joyful, meaningful, and tailored to each child's unique needs. Our programs are designed to nurture young minds, build strong foundations, and prepare children for a bright and successful future.