In early childhood education, a key question arises:
Should children guide their own learning, or follow a structured calendar of events?
At Kidz Magic, we embrace the belief, supported by the Australian Government’s Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) , that children are capable learners who thrive when given agency.
This blog explores why child-led experiences, rooted in play-based learning, foster deeper, lasting development.
Understanding Child-Led Learning
Child-led learning is at the heart of quality early childhood education, where educators observe and respond to a child’s interests, rather than exclusively directing them through a series of predetermined activities.
According to Starting Blocks, play is central to learning. It’s how children explore, imagine, and make decisions naturally. Child-led play supports this process by affording children:
- Autonomy in choosing activities
- Exploration based on natural curiosity
- Intrinsic motivation to learn
This approach is endorsed by frameworks like EYLF V2.0, which encourages intentional teaching that builds on children’s ideas and agency.
Why Child-Led Experiences Matter
As outlined by Starting Blocks, play supports:
- Physical development – running, climbing, dancing
- Social and emotional growth – empathy, confidence, self-regulation
- Cognitive development – memory, focus, imagination, problem-solving
- Literacy and numeracy foundations – storytelling, symbol recognition, early writing, and maths concepts
When children engage in play by choice, they build resilience, persistence, and self-confidence, which are essential life skills.
The Calendar of Events: When Structure Helps
A calendar of events offers structure and exposure to diverse experiences like cultural celebrations, excursions, and group projects. These experiences are valuable when they:
- Extend a child’s interests
- Are integrated into emergent curriculum
- Support belonging, being, and becoming (EYLF principles)
However, an overly rigid schedule may interrupt a child’s flow of learning or prevent spontaneous exploration. As EYLF V2.0 advises, educators should be responsive to individual interests and needs, rather than directing each activity.
A Balanced Approach at Kidz Magic
At Kidz Magic, we strike a balance using emergent curriculum planning, observing what engages children, and creating rich, supportive environments based on these interests.
Our educators implement scaffolding in play-based learning environments to aid children’s acquisition of new skills. This method enriches children’s learning experiences and fosters growth.
Through drawing on a diverse range of theories and perspectives, we enhance our early childhood approaches, promoting holistic child development.
For Families: What to Look For
When choosing a childcare centre, consider:
- Is play-based learning central to the program?
- Are child-led experiences visible in daily routines?
- Do educators observe, reflect, and adapt to your child’s interests?
- How are EYLF principles embedded into practice?
We invite families to visit Kidz Magic and see how we bring these approaches to life, where children are trusted, valued, and supported to thrive.
Why Choose Kidz Magic?
✔ Aligned with EYLF 2022 V2.0 principles
✔ Focused on child-led play and emergent curriculum
✔ Led by experienced educators who respect each child’s voice
✔ Committed to providing a nurturing, inclusive space where learning is fun and meaningful
Final Thoughts
National frameworks and research show that, on top of being fun, play is a powerful foundation for learning. While structured events add value to learning and development, child-led experiences are just as important for sparking deep connections, developing lifelong skills, and fostering a love of learning.
References
- Starting Blocks. (2025). The importance of play in children’s learning and development. Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority. Retrieved from https://www.startingblocks.gov.au/other-resources/factsheets/the-importance-of-play-in-children-s-learning-and-development
- Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA). (2023). Belonging, Being & Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia – Version 2.0. Retrieved from https://www.acecqa.gov.au/sites/default/files/2023-01/EYLF-2022-V2.0.pdf
