Guiding Growth: Behaviour, Inclusion, and Wellbeing in Practice
Duration: 2 hours
Audience: Early Childhood Educators
Theme: Emotional Intelligence, Inclusion, Wellbeing, and Intentional Practice

Course Overview

• A practical, evidence-informed session to support educators in guiding behaviour, fostering emotional wellbeing, and creating inclusive, joyful learning environments.
• Focus on resilience, self-regulation, and social-emotional growth.
• Encourages educators to sustain their own wellbeing and joy in their work.

Learning OutcomesEducators will:

• Understand behaviour as communication and respond with empathy and intention.
• Strengthen children’s emotional intelligence, resilience, and social skills.
• Implement inclusive and strengths-based approaches for diverse needs.
• Apply positive psychology principles to support educator wellbeing.
• Design engaging, nature-based and play-focused learning experiences.

Course Schedule (2 Hours Total)0:00 – 0:20 | Session 1: Emotional Intelligence & Resilience in Action

• Explore the foundations of emotional literacy and co-regulation.
• Practical tools for helping children name and manage emotions.
• Micro-strategies for resilience: persistence, optimism, and confidence-building.
• Mini Activity: “Feelings in Motion” – use movement or puppets to express emotions.

0:20 – 0:50 | Session 2: Guiding Behaviour & Inclusion

• Rethink “behaviour management” through a strengths-based, inclusive lens.
• Understand the “why” behind behaviour — communication, environment, and unmet needs.
• Explore inclusive strategies to support children with additional needs within group settings.
• Reflection Prompt: How do we make every child feel seen, safe, and supported?

0:50 – 1:20 | Session 3: Wellbeing for Educators – Caring for the Carers

• Explore the connection between educator wellbeing and classroom culture.
• Learn positive psychology tools for joy, gratitude, and emotional boundaries.
• Discover how to sustain passion and energy through self-care and teamwork.
• Quick Activity: “Recharge Rituals” – identify one wellbeing habit to implement daily.

1:20 – 1:50 | Session 4: Play, Nature & Intentional Environments

• Design nature-inspired provocations that foster curiosity and exploration.
• Explore the power of play in building connection, creativity, and confidence.
• Learn simple shifts to create safe, engaging, and emotionally responsive environments.
• Group Brainstorm: “Transform a Space” – quick redesign ideas for intentional learning zones.

 Reflection & Action Planning

• Identify one shift for:
  • Self-care and wellbeing
  • Supporting children
  • Creating responsive environments
• Group Reflection: “What will you try tomorrow?”
• Celebrate growth, joy, and professional intention.