Family

Families are central to each child's world, from the moment they are born. As children grow up, their family becomes part of their identity. Exploring families as an interest topic is a great way to engage children and connect with something they love deeply.

Remember, children can have many different people in their family: mums, dads, parents and carers, grandparents, new babies, siblings, cousins, aunties and uncles, and pets. Some much-loved family members won't fall into any of these categories.

The topic of families can be warm and wonderful, but it can also be challenging. Children may ask difficult questions about sex, poverty, gender, marriage, death, divorce, and family violence. Be aware of the challenges, but embrace them. They offer unique and important learning opportunities that connect directly to the curriculum.

The educational benefits of family include social awareness.

NQS

Family aligns with the National Quality Standard: Collaborative partnerships with families and communities (QA6).

EYLF learning outcomes

Family aligns with the Early Years Learning Framework as it:

• involves connecting with groups of people (2.1)
• promotes social wellbeing (3.1)
• encourages children to connect with people (4.4).

The Early Years Learning Framework discusses family:

"Children’s first attachments within their families and trusting relationships within other familiar settings provide them with a secure base from which to explore the environment and build new relationships."

"Educators recognise that families are children’s first and most influential teachers. They create a welcoming and culturally safe environment where all children and families are respected regardless of background, ethnicity, languages spoken, religion, family makeup or gender."

"From before birth children are connected to family, communities, culture and place. Their earliest learning, development and wellbeing takes place through these relationships, particularly within families, who are children’s first and most influential educators."

"Respecting diversity means valuing and reflecting the practices, values and beliefs of families within the curriculum. Educators acknowledge the histories, cultures, languages, traditions, religions, spiritual beliefs, child rearing practices and lifestyle choices of families."