Passionate Pioneers: Honoring Early Childhood Educators on Their Special Day

Services across the country join in the celebrations on Early Childhood Educators’ Day

Recognizing and celebrating those who work in early childhood education

Early Childhood Educators’ Day has become an annual event in the early childhood education and care (ECEC) calendar since its establishment in 2011. This year, with significant investments in early learning from both state and federal governments, there is an even greater need to recognize and celebrate the efforts of those who work in early childhood education.

On the first Wednesday of September each year, services across the country take a break from their busy schedules to highlight the important work done by teams in ECEC settings. This day serves as a platform for approved providers and families to express their gratitude to teachers, educators, and center leaders. It is an opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge all of Australia’s educators in early learning services, including long day care, family day care, kindergarten, preschool, and occasional care.

Australian educators and early childhood learning services play a crucial role in the care, education, growth, and development of children. Under the guidance of the Early Years Learning Framework, they support children in developing a sense of belonging, guide their social and emotional learning, provide support to families, lay the foundation for a lifelong learning journey, encourage inclusivity and independence, enhance children’s creativity and compassion, and ensure that children feel connected to their wider community.

Recognizing the importance of early childhood educators

Paul Mondo, President of the Australian Childcare Alliance (ACA), expressed the sector’s alignment in its goals for better pay for ECEC workers and accessible, high-quality early childhood education for all. Early learning service providers rely on their dedicated educators to provide children with the best possible start in life. Providers and families are encouraged to show their appreciation to early childhood educators on or during the week of Early Childhood Educators’ Day, whether through a formal celebration or simple gestures like a card or a small hand-made gift.

Kristie Torrisi, Centre Director at Petit ELJ Marian, believes that the day provides an opportunity for families, employers, and the wider community to recognize and appreciate the inspiring work that educators do every day. Educators possess special qualities like patience, fairness, empathy, flexibility, and the ability to make children feel safe and secure. Their passion and commitment to supporting children’s development and nurturing a love for learning is not just inspiring, but life-changing.

Celebrating educators across the country

Today, on Early Childhood Educators’ Day, numerous services will acknowledge their educators with gifts and celebrations, often with the support of their parent community. Morning or afternoon tea celebrations are common, along with certificates, specially printed t-shirts, personalized cards and notes, appreciation message walls, and small gifts such as coffee vouchers, chocolates, or water bottles.

The Australian Childcare Alliance (ACA) has also coordinated a collection of messages of support for Early Childhood Educators’ Day, including a message from Jason Roberts, Founder, and CEO of The Sector. This widespread appreciation reflects the importance of early childhood educators in the lives of children and families.

More than 3,200 early learning services have signed up to celebrate their educators today, which represents approximately one-third of early childhood education and care services across the country. This national community event serves as a reminder to appreciate the workforce that plays a critical role in shaping the future of Australia.

A message of gratitude

On behalf of The Sector, we extend our warmest wishes to all early childhood educators on this special day. Thank you for the work you do, your dedication, compassion, kindness, and support. Without you, Australia would not thrive.