Join us on the latest episode of Learn Play Thrive as we welcome Eliza Peacock from Milk & Munch, a certified speech pathologist with over 12 years of paediatric experience. Eliza is passionate about helping families overcome feeding challenges, from breast and bottle issues to complex swallowing difficulties and tube feeding, as well as navigating hesitancy around new foods.

In this insightful conversation, Eliza will shed light on the prevalence of "picky eating" in early childhood and why this common phase can be so challenging for families. We'll dive deep into the responsive feeding approach, exploring why connection at mealtimes is far more important than focusing solely on food intake.

Eliza shares invaluable neuro-affirming and supportive strategies that Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) services can implement immediately to create more positive and inclusive mealtime experiences for all children, including offering plain meal options, encouraging packed lunches, and empowering children to listen to their bodies. Discover how you can collaborate with families and leverage these strategies to transform mealtimes from battles to joyful bonds – tune in now!

Find out more:
www.milkandmunch.com.au
www.instagram.com/milk.and.munch/
www.facebook.com/people/Milk-Munch/100093130072793/#

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- Website: www.learnplaythrive.com.au

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In this episode of Learn Play Thrive, we welcome Jenny Nechvatal. Jenny is a passionate advocate from Innovative Disability Solutions with over 30 years' experience in the sector and lived experience parenting two children with disabilities. Author of ‘Embracing Disability in Early Childhood’, Jenny brings a wealth of knowledge to this crucial conversation.

We delve into the realities for families navigating a disability diagnosis, exploring the common emotions and stages they experience, alongside practical ideas for how early childhood professionals can offer essential support immediately following a diagnosis. Jenny also shares invaluable advice for early childhood educators, addressing parents' concerns about their child attending early childhood services and demystifying the role of various therapies and the NDIS. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to foster more inclusive and supportive early childhood environments.

Find out more:
www.innovativedisabilitysolutions.squarespace.com/
www.instagram.com/innovativedisabilitysolutions

If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving us a review on your favourite podcast platform.

Have questions or feedback? Connect with us on social media or email us at info@learnplaythrive.com.au

Connect with Us:

- Website: www.learnplaythrive.com.au

- Instagram: @learnplaythrive_

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- Email: info@learnplaythrive.com.au

Welcome to Learn Play Thrive's Little Library! In this episode, our Early Education Content Producer, Linda Harrison, dives into the award-winning picture book, ‘Bev and Kev’ by Katrina Germein and illustrated by our special guest, Mandy Foot.

This heartwarming story introduces us to an unlikely duo—a tall giraffe and a small oxpecker bird—and beautifully explores themes of self-acceptance, identity, belonging, and the true meaning of friendship. ‘Bev and Kev’ is a must-have for any early childhood setting, offering a fantastic springboard for discussions about uniqueness, emotions, and mathematical concepts. Linda and Mandy discuss how the book aligns with the EYLF V2.0, offering practical ways educators can use it to foster a positive sense of self-worth, build emotional vocabulary, and support STEM learning.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• A narrated reading of “Bev and Kev,” perfect for preschool and early years groups
• Simple ideas to bring the story to life through role play, art and movement
• A reflection on using stories as tools for emotional literacy in early childhood settings

Whether you’re in the classroom, at home or on the go, our Little Library episodes are designed to inspire a love of language, creativity and mindfulness.

For more resources and professional development tools, visit www.learnplaythrive.com.au.

If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving us a review on your favourite podcast platform.

Have questions or feedback? Connect with us on social media or email us at info@learnplaythrive.com.au

Connect with Us:

- Website: www.learnplaythrive.com.au

- Instagram: @learnplaythrive_

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- Email: info@learnplaythrive.com.au

In this episode of Learn, Play, Thrive, I sit down with Anthony Semann, co-director of Semann & Slattery, to explore how the concept of “slow pedagogy” is revolutionising the way we plan and engage in early childhood education.

Together, we unpack the philosophy and origins of the slow movement - starting with slow food in Italy - and explore its deep relevance to early childhood. We reflect on how slowing down in our practice allows us to foster deeper relationships, create more meaningful learning experiences, and focus on thinking over ticking boxes.

Anthony shares stories from his own career and practical tips on shifting from activity-heavy planning to thought-led curriculum design. We also talk about how to balance regulatory requirements with the need to slow down, embed reflection, and create authentic and responsive learning environments for children.

This episode is perfect for early childhood educators, centre leaders, and anyone looking to reconnect with the heart of their practice.

Key Topics Covered:

• The origins and relevance of slow pedagogy in early childhood
• How to shift from planning activities to planning thinking
• Strategies for embedding reflection in your team culture
• Valuing the process of learning over the product
• How slow pedagogy aligns with the National Quality Standard and EYLF
• Practical ways to support shared sustained thinking and inquiry
• The importance of educator relationships, collaboration, and emotional regulation
• Why less really is more when it comes to documentation

If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving us a review on your favourite podcast platform.

Have questions or feedback? Connect with us on social media or email us at info@learnplaythrive.com.au

Connect with Us:

- Website: www.learnplaythrive.com.au

- Instagram: @learnplaythrive_

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562511891094

- Email: info@learnplaythrive.com.au

In this conversation from an exhibitor at the Semann & Slattery Inspire Conference 2025, we sat down with Deidre Donnelly and Tamika Hicks from the United Workers Union's Big Steps Campaign. In this episode, we delve into the heart of their advocacy and discuss how, together as union members, educators are the driving force behind the Big Steps Campaign to secure professional pay, respect, and recognition.

This episode sheds light on critical issues impacting the early childhood sector, including the Australian Government worker retention payment to support our dedicated educators. We also explore the ongoing efforts to recognise educators as true professionals, a crucial step towards valuing their immense contribution to society. Tune in to hear how the Big Steps Campaign is fighting for better conditions and recognition for those who nurture our youngest learners.

Find out more:
https://bigsteps.org.au/

www.education.gov.au/early-childhood/providers/workforce/wages

https://www.fairwork.gov.au/newsroom/news/early-childhood-education-and-care-worker-retention-payment

If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving us a review on your favourite podcast platform.

Have questions or feedback? Connect with us on social media or email us at info@learnplaythrive.com.au

Connect with Us:

- Website: www.learnplaythrive.com.au

- Instagram: @learnplaythrive_

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562511891094

- Email: info@learnplaythrive.com.au

In this chat Simone shares her passion for working in the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) industry, what its been like building two long day care centres from the ground up, and all that comes with being an Approved Provider. Simone candidly reveals invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of being an Approved Provider, offering a raw and honest look at the dedication required to establish two services rated at Exceeding the National Quality Standard (NQS).

Key Talking Points:
The process of planning and developing two high-quality ECEC centres.
Understanding the responsibilities and obligations of an Approved Provider.
Building and managing a team of qualified educators.
Overcoming unexpected hurdles and adapting to change.
Lessons learned and advice for aspiring Approved Providers.

Find out more:
Subscribe to the podcast for more insightful conversations with ECEC sector leaders.

If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving us a review on your favourite podcast platform.

Have questions or feedback? Connect with us on social media or email us at info@learnplaythrive.com.au

Connect with Us:

- Website: www.learnplaythrive.com.au

- Instagram: @learnplaythrive_

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562511891094

- Email: info@learnplaythrive.com.au

This special episode features Samantha Page, the dynamic CEO of Early Childhood Australia (ECA). As the driving force behind advocacy for children under eight, their families, and the professionals who support them, Samantha brings over two decades of experience in the non-government sector, fueled by a deep commitment to social equality. She leads ECA in tirelessly collaborating with governments, educators, and families to foster quality, social justice, and equity in the Early Childhood Education and Care sector.

In this insightful conversation, we'll cover:
- The key issues ECA is currently championing for young children, their families, and educators.
- A sneak peek of exciting insights, and experiences educators can anticipate at this year's ECA National Conference in Perth.
- The best ways for listeners to connect with ECA through their state and territory committees.

Tune in to discover how ECA are making a profound impact on the early childhood landscape and how you can be a part of their vital work.

Find out more:
www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/
www.instagram.com/earlychildaust/?hl=en

If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving us a review on your favourite podcast platform.

Have questions or feedback? Connect with us on social media or email us at info@learnplaythrive.com.au

Connect with Us:

- Website: www.learnplaythrive.com.au

- Instagram: @learnplaythrive_

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562511891094

- Email: info@learnplaythrive.com.au

Today on the podcast, we're joined by two influential figures in early childhood education: Laura Stone from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), and Jenae Tien Jenkins, an award-winning producer, author, and social entrepreneur. Laura spearheads ABC Kids Early Education, focusing on curriculum-aligned resources. Jenae, through Expand Your Library, champions allyship and challenges cultural stereotypes. This episode delves into their exciting collaboration to create the Allies and Friends Toolkit, an initiative centered around allyship in the early years.

The conversation will explore:
- The vital concept of allyship in early childhood education.
- The core themes of allyship in the early years - cultural diversity, fostering kindness, and growing together.
- The ‘Allies and Friends Toolkit’, a resource developed to support educators in integrating allyship into play-based learning.

Find out more:
www.abc.net.au/abckids/early-education/allies-and-friends-toolkit
www.abc.net.au/abckids
www.facebook.com/ABCKidsCommunity/
www.instagram.com/abciview
www.instagram.com/jenaetien/?hl=en
www.expandyourlibrary.com.au
www.instagram.com/expandyourlibrary

If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving us a review on your favourite podcast platform.

Have questions or feedback? Connect with us on social media or email us at info@learnplaythrive.com.au

Connect with Us:

- Website: www.learnplaythrive.com.au

- Instagram: @learnplaythrive_

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562511891094

- Email: info@learnplaythrive.com.au