Tassie Treats -
Growing Minds Retreat: Nurturing Educators
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8-Night Developmental Psychology Retreat Itinerary
For Early Childhood Educators
Sure! Here's a dot point summary of what's included in the 8-Night Developmental Psychology Retreat for Early Childhood Educators:
Wellbeing & RelaxationDaily sunrise yoga sessions
Daily morning nature walks
Time allocated for rest, reflection, journaling, or spa/creative activities
A full day of wine tasting at local Launceston wineries
Opportunities for guided meditation and mindfulness practice
Professional Learning4 full days of themed professional development sessions, covering:
Early childhood theorists (Piaget, Vygotsky, Erikson, etc.)
Attachment theory and emotional development
Nature vs. nurture in development
Trauma-informed practices
Play therapy and nature play
Holistic wellbeing and educator self-care
Interactive workshops and role-plays
Creation of a personal educational philosophy
Goal setting and action planning for continued growth
Optional evening sessions (mindfulness, trauma-informed practice, building emotional connections)
Food & Accommodation8 x Daily breakfast, 7 x lunches, and 8 x dinners
Welcome dinner and cocktail night
4* accommodation for 8 nights
Return transfers to the airport
Overview:
This immersive 8-night retreat is designed for early childhood educators seeking to deepen their understanding of developmental psychology while prioritising personal wellbeing and connection. Held in the serene surrounds of Launceston, Tasmania, the retreat blends professional learning, personal reflection, and restorative experiences in equal measure.
Each day begins with sunrise yoga and mindful walks, setting a peaceful tone before engaging in rich educational sessions. Topics explored throughout the retreat include key developmental theorists, attachment theory, trauma-informed practice, play therapy, and the nature vs. nurture debate—grounding educators in both classic and contemporary psychological understandings.
Participants will also refine their teaching philosophy, develop action plans, and explore practical strategies for supporting children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development. Evenings offer optional workshops and reflective sessions, while rest days and activities such as wine tasting and nature play promote relaxation and joy.
This retreat is both a professional deep dive and a nourishing escape, offering educators space to learn, unwind, and return with renewed purpose.
Day 1: Saturday – Arrival & Welcome
3:00pm - 5:00pm: Check-in & Settling In
Arrive, unpack, and settle into accommodation.
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Welcome Dinner & Cocktail Connection
Focusing on Our Why & Supporting Children’s Early Childhood Development
A relaxed social event with cocktails (or non-alcoholic drinks).
A chance to connect with fellow educators and reflect on "our why" — exploring why we choose to work in early childhood education and how we can better support children's development.
Discussion prompts around personal motivations and how these influence educational practices.
7:00pm - 8:30pm: Relax & Reflect
Informal relaxation and group sharing. Introduction to the retreat’s focus on wellbeing and professional growth.
Optional evening walk or relax in your room
Day 2: Sunday – Rest Day & Wine Tasting
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
A peaceful and gentle start to the day.
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk
A calming walk to enjoy nature and reflect.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
A wholesome breakfast to energize for the day.
9:30am - 3:00pm: Wine Tasting at Nearby Wineries
Spend the day exploring the beautiful vineyards around Launceston, enjoying a guided wine-tasting experience at local wineries. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about Tasmania’s renowned wine production while enjoying the scenic views of the region. This is a chance to unwind, connect with fellow educators, and indulge in Tasmanian wines.
3:00pm - 5:30pm: Return to Accommodation & Relax
After the wine tasting, return to the retreat venue and take some time to rest or reflect.
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Dinner
7:00pm - 8:00pm: Optional Evening Session: Supporting Social-Emotional Development in Young Children
Tools and strategies to nurture social-emotional growth in early childhood settings.
Day 3: Monday – Early Childhood Theorists & Philosophy Workshop
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
A grounding practice and calming session to stretch, and support your mental and physical wellbeing
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk
A refreshing walk to connect with nature.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
Enjoy a healthy breakfast.
Morning:
Session 1: Introduction to Early Childhood Theorists
Overview of foundational theorists in early childhood development (Piaget, Vygotsky, Montessori, etc.).
Exploring how these theories inform modern educational practices.
Session 2: Philosophy of Early Childhood Education
Reflecting on your personal educational philosophy.
Discussion on the role of educators in fostering development and shaping young minds.
12:00pm - 1:00pm: Lunch
A nourishing meal to refresh for the afternoon.
Afternoon:
Session 3: Creating a Personal Educational Philosophy
A workshop to articulate and refine your teaching philosophy.
Peer feedback and group discussions to clarify individual values and approaches.
Session 4: The Role of Educators in Child Development
Practical strategies for applying developmental theories in the classroom.
Reflecting on how theory impacts everyday teaching practices.
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Dinner
Enjoy a nutritious dinner and connect with colleagues.
7:00pm - 8:00pm: Optional Evening Session: Mindfulness in Early Childhood Education
Introduction to mindfulness techniques that can be applied to support children’s emotional regulation.
Day 4: Tuesday – Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development & Attachment Theory
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
A grounding practice and calming session to stretch and support your mental and physical wellbeing
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk
A mindful walk to connect with nature and reflect.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
A delicious and energising meal to begin the day.
Morning:
Session 1: Erik Erikson’s 8 Stages of Psychosocial Development
An in-depth look at Erikson’s theory and its relevance to early childhood education.
Case studies and classroom applications.
Session 2: Attachment Theory
Exploring different attachment styles and their effects on emotional and social development.
How attachment impacts children’s interactions with their peers and educators.
12:00pm - 1:00pm: Lunch
Healthy lunch to rejuvenate for the afternoon.
Afternoon:
Session 3: Building Secure Attachments in the Classroom
Practical tips and strategies to promote secure attachment in young children.
Role-playing activities and case studies.
Session 4: Supporting Emotional Development
Discussion on emotional milestones in early childhood and how to nurture emotional intelligence.
Tools for educators to use in supporting children's emotional growth.
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Dinner
Nourishing meal to refuel.
7:00pm - 8:00pm: Optional Evening Session
Group sharing of insights or guided meditation to unwind.
Day 5: Wednesday – Nature vs. Nurture, Developmental Theories & Setting Goals
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
A grounding practice and calming session to stretch, and support your mental and physical wellbeing
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk
A walk to engage with the natural surroundings.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
Enjoy a hearty breakfast to start the day.
Morning:
Session 1: Nature vs. Nurture in Child Development
Discussing the balance between genetic and environmental factors in shaping development.
Case studies and reflection on how nature and nurture affect learning and behaviour.
Session 2: An Overview of Developmental Theories
Summary of key developmental theories (e.g., Piaget, Vygotsky, Erikson) and their relevance today.
Connecting theory to practice in early childhood settings.
12:00pm - 1:00pm: Lunch
Nutritious meal to nourish and refresh.
Afternoon:
Session 3: Setting Personal and Professional Goals
Reflecting on personal growth and professional development.
Developing a strategy for achieving goals in the coming months and years.
Session 4: Action Plans for Continued Learning
Creating action plans for integrating retreat insights into daily practice.
Peer feedback and group support to solidify goals.
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Dinner
Enjoy a shared meal with fellow participants.
7:00pm - 8:00pm: Optional Evening Session: Building a Trauma-Informed Classroom Environment
Practical strategies to make early childhood settings trauma-sensitive.
Day 6: Thursday – Play Therapy, Trauma-Informed Practice & Educator Wellbeing
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
A grounding practice and calming session to stretch, and support your mental and physical wellbeing
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk
A mindful walk through nature to centre yourself.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
Enjoy a delicious and wholesome breakfast.
Morning:
Session 1: Play Therapy in Early Childhood
Understanding how play therapy can support emotional and social development.
Activities and case studies to explore play-based interventions.
Session 2: Trauma-Informed Practices in Early Childhood
The impact of trauma on children’s development and behaviour.
Practical strategies for creating a safe, trauma-sensitive classroom environment.
12:00pm - 1:00pm: Lunch
A revitalising lunch to prepare for the afternoon.
Afternoon:
Session 3: Supporting Educator Wellbeing
Techniques for managing stress, burnout, and maintaining mental health in the classroom.
Building resilience and self-care practices for educators.
Session 4: Creating a Positive Learning Environment
Discussing how a nurturing and supportive environment benefits both children and educators.
Practical tips for setting up emotionally supportive learning spaces.
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Dinner
Nourishing and comforting dinner.
7:00pm - 8:00pm: Optional Evening Session: Creating Developmentally Appropriate Goals for Children
A focus on setting appropriate developmental goals for children in early childhood education.
Day 7: Friday – Nature Play, Holistic Wellbeing & Team Collaboration
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
A grounding practice and calming session to stretch, and support your mental and physical wellbeing
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk
A brisk walk to invigorate and inspire.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
Enjoy a healthy breakfast with colleagues.
Morning:
Session 1: Nature Play and Child Development
Exploring the importance of outdoor play in fostering cognitive, social, and emotional growth.
Ideas for integrating nature into daily routines and learning.
Session 2: Supporting Children’s Holistic Wellbeing
Focusing on children’s mental, emotional, and physical health.
Approaches to supporting the whole child in a balanced and integrated way.
12:00pm - 1:00pm: Lunch
A nourishing meal to refresh for the afternoon.
Afternoon:
Session 3: Working with Teams and Supporting Colleagues’ Wellbeing
Strategies for fostering positive teamwork and supporting each other’s wellbeing in the workplace.
Role-playing and team-building activities.
Session 4: Creating a Culture of Wellbeing
Practical ideas for building a supportive, inclusive, and healthy organisational culture.
Group discussion on promoting wellbeing within educational settings.
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Dinner
A final celebratory meal together.
7:00pm - 8:00pm: Optional Evening Session: Group Reflection on Educational Philosophy
An open forum to share and discuss personal philosophies of education and practice.
Day 8: Saturday – Rest Day
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
A grounding practice and calming session to stretch, and support your mental and physical wellbeing
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk
A walk to connect with nature.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
Enjoy a quiet breakfast.
Daytime: Rest and Reflect
Personal time for journaling, reading, or outdoor activities.
Optional group activity (e.g., nature walk, guided meditation, or a creative workshop).
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Dinner
Nourishing and comforting dinner.
7:00pm - 8:00pm: Optional Evening Session: Building Emotional Connections in the Classroom
Explore strategies for building strong emotional connections with children in early childhood settings.
Day 9: Sunday – Departure
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
Final yoga session to reflect on the retreat journey.
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk Enjoy the morning air and reflect on your experiences.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
A final breakfast together.
Late Morning: Check-out & Departure
Check-out and transport arrangements
For Early Childhood Educators
Sure! Here's a dot point summary of what's included in the 8-Night Developmental Psychology Retreat for Early Childhood Educators:
Wellbeing & RelaxationDaily sunrise yoga sessions
Daily morning nature walks
Time allocated for rest, reflection, journaling, or spa/creative activities
A full day of wine tasting at local Launceston wineries
Opportunities for guided meditation and mindfulness practice
Professional Learning4 full days of themed professional development sessions, covering:
Early childhood theorists (Piaget, Vygotsky, Erikson, etc.)
Attachment theory and emotional development
Nature vs. nurture in development
Trauma-informed practices
Play therapy and nature play
Holistic wellbeing and educator self-care
Interactive workshops and role-plays
Creation of a personal educational philosophy
Goal setting and action planning for continued growth
Optional evening sessions (mindfulness, trauma-informed practice, building emotional connections)
Food & Accommodation8 x Daily breakfast, 7 x lunches, and 8 x dinners
Welcome dinner and cocktail night
4* accommodation for 8 nights
Return transfers to the airport
Overview:
This immersive 8-night retreat is designed for early childhood educators seeking to deepen their understanding of developmental psychology while prioritising personal wellbeing and connection. Held in the serene surrounds of Launceston, Tasmania, the retreat blends professional learning, personal reflection, and restorative experiences in equal measure.
Each day begins with sunrise yoga and mindful walks, setting a peaceful tone before engaging in rich educational sessions. Topics explored throughout the retreat include key developmental theorists, attachment theory, trauma-informed practice, play therapy, and the nature vs. nurture debate—grounding educators in both classic and contemporary psychological understandings.
Participants will also refine their teaching philosophy, develop action plans, and explore practical strategies for supporting children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development. Evenings offer optional workshops and reflective sessions, while rest days and activities such as wine tasting and nature play promote relaxation and joy.
This retreat is both a professional deep dive and a nourishing escape, offering educators space to learn, unwind, and return with renewed purpose.
Day 1: Saturday – Arrival & Welcome
3:00pm - 5:00pm: Check-in & Settling In
Arrive, unpack, and settle into accommodation.
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Welcome Dinner & Cocktail Connection
Focusing on Our Why & Supporting Children’s Early Childhood Development
A relaxed social event with cocktails (or non-alcoholic drinks).
A chance to connect with fellow educators and reflect on "our why" — exploring why we choose to work in early childhood education and how we can better support children's development.
Discussion prompts around personal motivations and how these influence educational practices.
7:00pm - 8:30pm: Relax & Reflect
Informal relaxation and group sharing. Introduction to the retreat’s focus on wellbeing and professional growth.
Optional evening walk or relax in your room
Day 2: Sunday – Rest Day & Wine Tasting
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
A peaceful and gentle start to the day.
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk
A calming walk to enjoy nature and reflect.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
A wholesome breakfast to energize for the day.
9:30am - 3:00pm: Wine Tasting at Nearby Wineries
Spend the day exploring the beautiful vineyards around Launceston, enjoying a guided wine-tasting experience at local wineries. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about Tasmania’s renowned wine production while enjoying the scenic views of the region. This is a chance to unwind, connect with fellow educators, and indulge in Tasmanian wines.
3:00pm - 5:30pm: Return to Accommodation & Relax
After the wine tasting, return to the retreat venue and take some time to rest or reflect.
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Dinner
7:00pm - 8:00pm: Optional Evening Session: Supporting Social-Emotional Development in Young Children
Tools and strategies to nurture social-emotional growth in early childhood settings.
Day 3: Monday – Early Childhood Theorists & Philosophy Workshop
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
A grounding practice and calming session to stretch, and support your mental and physical wellbeing
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk
A refreshing walk to connect with nature.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
Enjoy a healthy breakfast.
Morning:
Session 1: Introduction to Early Childhood Theorists
Overview of foundational theorists in early childhood development (Piaget, Vygotsky, Montessori, etc.).
Exploring how these theories inform modern educational practices.
Session 2: Philosophy of Early Childhood Education
Reflecting on your personal educational philosophy.
Discussion on the role of educators in fostering development and shaping young minds.
12:00pm - 1:00pm: Lunch
A nourishing meal to refresh for the afternoon.
Afternoon:
Session 3: Creating a Personal Educational Philosophy
A workshop to articulate and refine your teaching philosophy.
Peer feedback and group discussions to clarify individual values and approaches.
Session 4: The Role of Educators in Child Development
Practical strategies for applying developmental theories in the classroom.
Reflecting on how theory impacts everyday teaching practices.
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Dinner
Enjoy a nutritious dinner and connect with colleagues.
7:00pm - 8:00pm: Optional Evening Session: Mindfulness in Early Childhood Education
Introduction to mindfulness techniques that can be applied to support children’s emotional regulation.
Day 4: Tuesday – Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development & Attachment Theory
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
A grounding practice and calming session to stretch and support your mental and physical wellbeing
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk
A mindful walk to connect with nature and reflect.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
A delicious and energising meal to begin the day.
Morning:
Session 1: Erik Erikson’s 8 Stages of Psychosocial Development
An in-depth look at Erikson’s theory and its relevance to early childhood education.
Case studies and classroom applications.
Session 2: Attachment Theory
Exploring different attachment styles and their effects on emotional and social development.
How attachment impacts children’s interactions with their peers and educators.
12:00pm - 1:00pm: Lunch
Healthy lunch to rejuvenate for the afternoon.
Afternoon:
Session 3: Building Secure Attachments in the Classroom
Practical tips and strategies to promote secure attachment in young children.
Role-playing activities and case studies.
Session 4: Supporting Emotional Development
Discussion on emotional milestones in early childhood and how to nurture emotional intelligence.
Tools for educators to use in supporting children's emotional growth.
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Dinner
Nourishing meal to refuel.
7:00pm - 8:00pm: Optional Evening Session
Group sharing of insights or guided meditation to unwind.
Day 5: Wednesday – Nature vs. Nurture, Developmental Theories & Setting Goals
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
A grounding practice and calming session to stretch, and support your mental and physical wellbeing
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk
A walk to engage with the natural surroundings.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
Enjoy a hearty breakfast to start the day.
Morning:
Session 1: Nature vs. Nurture in Child Development
Discussing the balance between genetic and environmental factors in shaping development.
Case studies and reflection on how nature and nurture affect learning and behaviour.
Session 2: An Overview of Developmental Theories
Summary of key developmental theories (e.g., Piaget, Vygotsky, Erikson) and their relevance today.
Connecting theory to practice in early childhood settings.
12:00pm - 1:00pm: Lunch
Nutritious meal to nourish and refresh.
Afternoon:
Session 3: Setting Personal and Professional Goals
Reflecting on personal growth and professional development.
Developing a strategy for achieving goals in the coming months and years.
Session 4: Action Plans for Continued Learning
Creating action plans for integrating retreat insights into daily practice.
Peer feedback and group support to solidify goals.
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Dinner
Enjoy a shared meal with fellow participants.
7:00pm - 8:00pm: Optional Evening Session: Building a Trauma-Informed Classroom Environment
Practical strategies to make early childhood settings trauma-sensitive.
Day 6: Thursday – Play Therapy, Trauma-Informed Practice & Educator Wellbeing
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
A grounding practice and calming session to stretch, and support your mental and physical wellbeing
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk
A mindful walk through nature to centre yourself.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
Enjoy a delicious and wholesome breakfast.
Morning:
Session 1: Play Therapy in Early Childhood
Understanding how play therapy can support emotional and social development.
Activities and case studies to explore play-based interventions.
Session 2: Trauma-Informed Practices in Early Childhood
The impact of trauma on children’s development and behaviour.
Practical strategies for creating a safe, trauma-sensitive classroom environment.
12:00pm - 1:00pm: Lunch
A revitalising lunch to prepare for the afternoon.
Afternoon:
Session 3: Supporting Educator Wellbeing
Techniques for managing stress, burnout, and maintaining mental health in the classroom.
Building resilience and self-care practices for educators.
Session 4: Creating a Positive Learning Environment
Discussing how a nurturing and supportive environment benefits both children and educators.
Practical tips for setting up emotionally supportive learning spaces.
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Dinner
Nourishing and comforting dinner.
7:00pm - 8:00pm: Optional Evening Session: Creating Developmentally Appropriate Goals for Children
A focus on setting appropriate developmental goals for children in early childhood education.
Day 7: Friday – Nature Play, Holistic Wellbeing & Team Collaboration
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
A grounding practice and calming session to stretch, and support your mental and physical wellbeing
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk
A brisk walk to invigorate and inspire.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
Enjoy a healthy breakfast with colleagues.
Morning:
Session 1: Nature Play and Child Development
Exploring the importance of outdoor play in fostering cognitive, social, and emotional growth.
Ideas for integrating nature into daily routines and learning.
Session 2: Supporting Children’s Holistic Wellbeing
Focusing on children’s mental, emotional, and physical health.
Approaches to supporting the whole child in a balanced and integrated way.
12:00pm - 1:00pm: Lunch
A nourishing meal to refresh for the afternoon.
Afternoon:
Session 3: Working with Teams and Supporting Colleagues’ Wellbeing
Strategies for fostering positive teamwork and supporting each other’s wellbeing in the workplace.
Role-playing and team-building activities.
Session 4: Creating a Culture of Wellbeing
Practical ideas for building a supportive, inclusive, and healthy organisational culture.
Group discussion on promoting wellbeing within educational settings.
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Dinner
A final celebratory meal together.
7:00pm - 8:00pm: Optional Evening Session: Group Reflection on Educational Philosophy
An open forum to share and discuss personal philosophies of education and practice.
Day 8: Saturday – Rest Day
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
A grounding practice and calming session to stretch, and support your mental and physical wellbeing
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk
A walk to connect with nature.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
Enjoy a quiet breakfast.
Daytime: Rest and Reflect
Personal time for journaling, reading, or outdoor activities.
Optional group activity (e.g., nature walk, guided meditation, or a creative workshop).
5:30pm - 7:00pm: Dinner
Nourishing and comforting dinner.
7:00pm - 8:00pm: Optional Evening Session: Building Emotional Connections in the Classroom
Explore strategies for building strong emotional connections with children in early childhood settings.
Day 9: Sunday – Departure
6:00am - 7:00am: Sunrise Yoga
Final yoga session to reflect on the retreat journey.
7:00am - 8:00am: Morning Walk Enjoy the morning air and reflect on your experiences.
8:00am - 9:00am: Breakfast
A final breakfast together.
Late Morning: Check-out & Departure
Check-out and transport arrangements