Yes, to an extent, toddlers are naturally selfish. This isn’t a moral failing, but rather a normal and essential stage of their development. Understanding why this is the case can help parents and caregivers navigate this challenging yet crucial period.  The Result of Impulse  At their core, toddlers are still

Dreaming is a fascinating aspect of human experience and it’s not just adults who embark on these nightly adventures. The question of “do toddlers dream?” often piques the curiosity of parents and the answer is a resounding yes. While we can’t ask them directly about their fantastical journeys, scientific understanding

When we talk about the ‘evolutionary importance of hand-eye coordination’, it might sound like something out of a science textbook for adults. But for little Aussies, it’s a foundational skill that’s been developing for millions of years and plays a crucial role in their early childhood development. This isn’t just

Understanding the intricate world of a toddler can feel like trying to decipher a secret code. Their rapidly developing brains are a whirlwind of sensory experiences, burgeoning emotions and a fierce drive for independence. So, what exactly goes through a toddler’s mind and how can parents better understand these tiny,

Children possess an innate drive to explore, discover and understand the world around them. This natural curiosity is a fundamental aspect of human development, fuelling their learning and shaping their understanding of how things work. From their earliest days, babies reach, grasp and observe, absorbing information at an astonishing rate.

It’s a common scene in households with toddlers: a treasured toy, a seemingly innocent snack, or even just a parent’s attention becomes the subject of intense, unyielding possessiveness. “Mine!” is often one of the first and most frequently uttered words in a toddler’s vocabulary, leaving many parents wondering, “Why do

In today’s digital world, screens are everywhere – from the telly and tablets to Mum or Dad’s smartphone at the cafe. For Aussie parents of toddlers, it can be tricky to strike a balance between the convenience of digital media and ensuring the little ones develop healthy habits from the

For parents living in Menai and the surrounding suburbs of the Sutherland Shire, ensuring your kids have every opportunity to thrive is a top priority. One of the simplest—and most powerful—ways to support your child’s development is by encouraging daily outdoor play. Whether it’s a romp in the backyard, a

In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, screens have become a familiar part of everyday life. From checking messages on your mobile to streaming telly in the arvo, digital devices are everywhere. While technology offers plenty of benefits, it’s crucial for parents and carers to consider how their own digital habits shape

In an era where smartphones are as common as cars on the road, Australian families are increasingly facing a silent yet significant challenge: the impact of parents’ own phone use on their children’s development. While many of us fret about teenagers glued to their screens, new research suggests that it’s

As any parent of a toddler knows, mess seems to follow them wherever they go. From muddy footprints on the footpath to paint splatters on the kitchen bench, it can feel like a never-ending clean-up. But before you reach for the mop, consider that all those messy moments might be

In Australia, the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) serves as a guiding star for early childhood education, articulating a vision for children’s learning from birth to five years and through the transition to school. Far more than a set of academic objectives, the EYLF is built upon three foundational pillars:

In an increasingly indoor world, often dominated by screens and structured activities, the profound value of simply being outside – playing freely in nature – is sometimes overlooked. Yet, for young children, the “great outdoors” is arguably the most dynamic and enriching classroom of all. Leading early learning centres, like

When discussions turn to “school readiness,” the immediate focus often gravitates towards a child’s grasp of the alphabet, counting or recognising shapes. While these foundational skills certainly play a role, a deeper understanding of true preparedness reveals that rote memorisation of facts is far less impactful than cultivating a child’s

In a world that often rushes to do things for children, the profound benefits of allowing them to contribute meaningfully are often overlooked. Yet, for young learners, participating in the daily rhythms and tasks of their environment is far more than just a chore; it’s a powerful pathway to developing

The future is an enigma. While we can’t predict the specific challenges or opportunities children will face, one thing is certain: they will need to be adaptable, critical thinkers and lifelong learners to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Traditional rote learning, focused on memorising facts, simply won’t suffice. Instead,

For young children, navigating new environments can be both exciting and daunting. The transition from the familiar comforts of home to an early learning centre and subsequently to the structured world of formal schooling, represents significant developmental leaps. Recognising these pivotal moments, leading early learning centres master the art of

Starting kindergarten is a significant milestone—not just for children, but also for their families. For parents in Menai and surrounding suburbs of the Sutherland Shire, supporting your child’s learning at home plays a crucial role in complementing what they’re experiencing in the classroom. Here are some practical ways you can

When thinking about preparing our children for a complex world, it’s tempting to focus on academic achievement and structured learning. But for parents of kindergarteners in Menai and the Sutherland Shire, the greatest lessons might just be found outside the classroom—on the playground, in bushland reserves, or even in the

As a parent, giving your child the best start in life is always top of mind. In the Sutherland Shire—especially in suburbs like Menai, Bangor, Alfords Point and surrounds—ensuring your little one has access to quality early childhood education is not just a dream, but a growing reality. Thanks to

When we think about early childhood education, we often picture children learning to count, recognise letters, or paint vibrant pictures. Yet, some of the most important lessons our children learn at kindergarten aren’t about ABCs or 123s—they’re about people. In the bustling kindergartens of Menai and the Sutherland Shire, educators

The first five years of a child’s life are filled with wonder—and they’re also absolutely critical for brain development. For parents in Menai and the Sutherland Shire, understanding how a nurturing environment lays the foundation for your child’s future can help give them the very best start.  The Power of

As parents living in Menai and the vibrant surrounds of the Sutherland Shire, you want the best for your child—not just in terms of safety and care, but also in fostering a lifelong love of learning. At Three Little Bees Early Learning Centre, we believe that genuine curiosity is the

For parents in Menai and surrounding southern Sydney suburbs with more than one child, the daily symphony often includes a unique blend of laughter, whispered secrets and, let’s be honest, the occasional squabble over a toy car. While these moments can test our patience, there’s an often-underrated truth about sibling

For parents in Menai, Lucas Heights and Bangor, witnessing your 2-3 year old explore the world is a daily marvel. From their first wobbly steps to their burgeoning vocabulary, it’s clear their little brains are working overtime. What you might not realise is just how profoundly impactful their everyday play

When it comes to nurturing your toddler’s growing brain, simple objects like wooden blocks, colourful scarves and natural items such as pinecones can offer far greater benefits than flashy, complex toys with blinking lights and predetermined functions. Parenting in Menai, Bangor, or Lucas Heights often means navigating a world flooded

As parents in Menai, Bangor and Lucas Heights, we often strive for a tidy home, a clean toddler and a semblance of order in our busy lives. But what if we told you that embracing a little chaos – specifically, the delightful chaos of “messy play” – is one of

As parents in Menai, Bangor, Lucas Heights and other nearby southern Sydney suburbs, we naturally want our children to succeed. But how often do we consider that the way we praise them and how we frame their challenges, might be even more crucial than the achievements themselves? For our 2-3

For parents in Menai and surrounding suburbs in southern Sydney, screens have become an undeniable part of modern life. From smartphones to tablets, they’re ever-present. While they might offer a moment of quiet, it’s crucial to understand the silent and often underestimated, impact they can have on your 2-3 year