Early Childhood Educators play a vital role in shaping young minds during the most important learning years of life. From the early months through to school entry, educators provide support, structure, and guidance that help children grow emotionally, socially, and intellectually.

In Australia, Early Childhood Education typically covers children from infancy to around six years old, before they begin primary school. Within this period, there are several distinct stages of development—and as an educator, you’ll adapt your approach and learning activities to suit each age group.

Let’s break down the stages of Early Childhood Education to see how and where you can make an impact.

What Age Range Does Early Childhood Education Include?

In the Australian context, Early Childhood Education begins in infancy and continues until children are ready to start school—generally between the ages of 0 and 6. While each child develops at their own pace, these broad stages help educators structure learning experiences and developmental goals.

Infancy (0–2 years)

This stage is all about nurturing relationships, emotional security, and sensory discovery. Infants learn through touch, sound, and movement, so programs typically focus on gentle routines, responsive caregiving, and basic motor skill development.

Educators working with this age group often provide one-on-one care in long day-care centres or family day-care settings. Daily activities might include reading, singing, tummy time, or simply comforting a child through their routine.

Toddlers (2–3 years)

As children enter the toddler phase, they become more mobile and start expressing themselves through early speech. At this age, learning is heavily play-based and encourages curiosity, early social interaction, and communication skills.

Educators help toddlers navigate their world through storytelling, interactive games, group activities, and structured routines. You’ll see children becoming more independent and beginning to engage with peers.

Preschoolers (3–5 years)

Preschool years introduce more structured learning while maintaining a strong focus on play and creativity. Educators help children build on earlier skills and develop foundational literacy, numeracy, and emotional intelligence.

Whether working in kindergartens, preschools, or early learning centres, educators at this stage focus on preparing children for the transition to school. Lesson planning may include storytelling, hands-on science projects, basic counting activities, and role play to build social confidence.

School Readiness (4–6 years)

This final stage bridges early learning and formal education. Children begin engaging in pre-academic tasks such as writing their names, counting, and understanding basic classroom behaviours.

Some children may start primary school at age four or five, while others benefit from additional time in a preschool setting. Educators in this phase help children become confident, independent, and emotionally ready for a school environment.

Early Learning Frameworks in Australia

Australia’s main guiding document for Early Childhood Education is the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). Rather than dividing curriculum by strict age brackets, EYLF focuses on five key learning outcomes that can be adapted to suit children at all stages of development.

For example, the framework encourages a strong sense of wellbeing across all age groups—but that might look like cuddling and soothing for infants, while for preschoolers it might involve cooperative games that support self-regulation and resilience.

Educators are trained to tailor activities based on both developmental milestones and the unique needs of each child.

Study Early Childhood Education at Oxford College

If you’re passionate about early learning and want to support children through their most formative years, Early Childhood Education is a deeply rewarding career.

At Oxford College of Health and Technology, our CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care equips you with the skills to work confidently with children from birth to age five or six. You’ll learn how to create nurturing learning environments, adapt programs to suit individual development, and foster lifelong learning habits in young children.

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