Little Lane Early Learning Centre - Hawthorn

At Little Lane Early Learning Centre Hawthorn the educators are inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, and they strongly believe in the important role that play-based learning plays in helping children to develop an understanding of the world around them. The centre’s program is a fluid blend of spontaneous discovery, where children can self-select interests and resources relevant to them, as well as intentional teaching strategies that support a set goal or outcome. 

The educational program aims to foster a lifelong love of learning through hands-on learning experiences that are guided by the children’s interests and developmental goals. The educational program is a rich tapestry underpinned by the Early Years Learning Framework and the centre’s own philosophy. 

The educational program is tailored to every age group and developmental stage and encourages children to grow and develop in a way that supports their individuality. The educators strongly believe in a holistic approach to education and care, with a strong focus on community and family participation and relationships. 

The educators at Little Lane Early Learning Centre Hawthorn ensure that children feel safe, supported and challenged to learn new things and participate in new experiences. The educators seek to make sure that the environment is inviting, natural, stimulating and engaging, and that it reflects the children’s personalities and interests. 

Technology plays a role in the children’s learning, with interactive whiteboards and computers to access various educational programs. Parents can access photos and updates about their child’s day through the centre’s free app.

Educators strive to create a calm, comfortable environment where each child feels safe. The highly trained team of educators are hand-picked to support the children and their learning. The centre is well resourced and each area is specifically designed with young learners in mind. 

Educators value their centre’s connection to the local community. Links with the local schools gives the children a sense of belonging in their area. Educators want to give children the best possible start on their next steps at school, which is why they focus on the children's social development, confidence and independence at a young age.

The professional onsite chef at Little Lane Early Learning Centre Hawthorn works in conjunction with the management team and families to create a seasonal rotating menu. All food is prepared fresh daily to ensure that the centre is meeting the nutritional needs of all age groups, guided by Healthy Eating guidelines. Family input on the menu is actively sought and the chef loves to incorporate well-loved family meals and culturally diverse meals into the menu. The centre can cater to all allergy and dietary requirements and have stringent processes around ensuring that dietary requirements are supported. 

Mealtimes at Little Lane are viewed as a time for connection and nourishment. Educators encourage social connection during mealtimes, with team members supporting meaningful conversations between children. Mealtimes are an opportunity to model and support a positive disposition towards healthy eating practices and the educators teach the importance of taking care of our bodies and recognising our own hunger levels. 

The educators recognise the benefits for children being engaged in experiences that help foster a curiosity towards new foods and textures. Educators regularly incorporate cooking experiences into the educational program. During these experiences, the children are able to experiment with a range of learning concepts such as measurements, turn-taking and understanding the different history and perceptions of different cultures.  

The centre values open-ended and natural materials, with an emphasis on incorporating these materials into the daily program. The centre has a native garden which allows them to highlight the ongoing relationship between people and the natural world, and our role in helping to take care of the world around us. The children are actively involved in implementing sustainable practices across all age groups, from utilising food waste for composting to harvesting the fruit and vegetables from the gardens.