Milestones Blog & News

All
Child Development
Childcare and Enrolment Advice
Early Learning
Healthy Recipes
Local Community
Milestones News
Tips and Ideas

Water Safety for Toddlers: Simple Ways to Keep Your Little One Safe This Summer

28 Oct 2026

Warm weather is here, and that means more time in and around water. Backyard pools, paddling pools, beach trips and bath time become part of everyday life for many families ...

Children’s Week 2026: Celebrating Your Child’s Right to Play, Learn and Belong

21 Oct 2026

Ask your child what they did today and you'll probably hear about play - the block tower that finally stayed up, the friend they chased around the yard, the song ...

Safe Work Month: How Childcare Centres Keep Your Child’s Environment Safe Every Day

09 Oct 2026

Every October, Safe Work Australia runs National Safe Work Month. This year's theme is "Safe work is for life." It's usually a conversation for workplaces. But your child's centre is ...

How Many Days of Childcare Does My Child Actually Need?

30 Sep 2026

Two days? Three? Five? It's one of the questions our educators hear most, whether a family is enrolling for the first time or their child has been with us for ...

Struggling With Your Child’s Sleep? Join a Free SleepBaker Workshop at Milestones

28 Sep 2026

It's 2am. You've done the water, the cuddle and the "one more story". You're running on empty and wondering if you're doing something wrong. You're not. Sleep struggles are really ...

Two Years of Kindergarten: What the Research Really Shows

15 Sep 2026

Post updated September 2026 Deciding when your child should start school is one of those choices that can feel bigger than it should. Is one year of kindergarten or preschool ...

Health, Safety & Wellbeing at Milestones

Why We Don’t Make Kids Finish Their Plate (And What We Do Instead)

08 Sep 2026

"Three more bites." "Just try it." "You can't have dessert until you finish your vegetables." If any of that sounds familiar, you're not alone, and you're not doing anything wrong. ...

The Future Starts With Us: Celebrating Our Educators This Early Childhood Educators’ Day

02 Sep 2026

On Wednesday 2 September, Australia marks Early Childhood Educators' Day(opens in new tab), a day set aside to say thank you to the people who show up for our children, ...

Returning to Work After Parental Leave: Looking After Yourself Through the Transition

25 Aug 2026

Somewhere between the last nappy change of your leave and the first alarm clock of your new routine, there's a moment most parents don't talk about enough: the moment you ...

Book Week 2026: Why Stories Are the Secret to School Readiness

18 Aug 2026

Book Week 2026 runs from Saturday 22 August to Friday 28 August, and this year's theme - "Symphony of Stories" - is a reminder of just how many different voices ...

Is It Okay to Feel Guilty About Childcare? Let’s Talk About It

11 Aug 2026

It's 7:45am. You've just walked out of the centre, and your chest is tight. Maybe your child cried at drop-off. Maybe they didn't, and somehow that felt worse. Either way, ...

National Science Week 2026: The Everyday Wonder That Grows Little Scientists

05 Aug 2026

Last week, at one Milestones centre, the water table caused a genuine scientific dispute. Two children were convinced their leaf-boats would float. A third wasn't so sure. What followed was ...

Sleeping Through the Night, Then Suddenly Not? Understanding Sleep Regressions

27 Jul 2026

One week your baby is settling beautifully and sleeping in long, predictable stretches. The next, they're waking every hour, refusing naps, or crying at bedtime for no obvious reason. If ...

What the Research Actually Says About Settling Into Childcare, And Why It’s Worth It

21 Jul 2026

Starting childcare is a big adjustment, for your child, and for you. It's natural to wonder what's really going on behind the scenes. Why does settling in take as long ...

Milestones Mount Riverview | Early Education & Child Care in Mount Riverview | Child enjoys the sandpit

Understanding Family Tax Benefit A and B: What It Means for Your Family in 2026-2027

15 Jul 2026

Editor's Note: This post was originally published in July 2025 for the 2025-26 financial year. It has been fully updated with the latest rates, thresholds, and rules for the 2026-27 ...

Could Your Family Get More Than 3 Days of Subsidised Care? Here’s a Quick Way to Check

14 Jul 2026

Since January, every CCS-eligible family gets at least 3 days (72 hours a fortnight) of subsidised care, guaranteed. That's a genuinely reassuring change - no forms to fill out, no ...

NAIDOC Week 2026: How Children at Milestones Connect with Country, Culture and Community

07 Jul 2026

Every year, NAIDOC Week gives us a chance to pause and ask: how do we help our children grow up understanding and respecting the world's oldest continuing cultures? At Milestones, ...

CCS and Tax Time: What Milestones Families Need to Know After 30 June

30 Jun 2026

The end of the financial year tends to sneak up on most of us. But if your family receives the Child Care Subsidy, there's a little more to EOFY than ...

Is My Toddler Late Talking? What Parents Need to Know About Speech Development

23 Jun 2026

If you've found yourself quietly counting your toddler's words, or wondering how they compare to other children at the park, you're not alone. Concerns about language development are among the ...

Early childhood learning and education at Milestones Seven Hills

Warm From the Inside Out: Our Winter Menu Is Here

16 Jun 2026

When the temperature drops, food becomes something more than fuel. For little ones, a warm, nourishing lunch in the middle of a winter day is comfort and care all at ...

Fussy Eaters and Childcare: What’s Normal, What Helps, and How We Support Variety at the Table

09 Jun 2026

If your little one pushes peas to the side of the plate, refuses what they happily ate last Tuesday, or survives entire weeks on what feels like three foods, you ...

Why Risky Play Matters – The Case for Letting Children Climb, Tumble and Explore

02 Jun 2026

If you've ever winced watching your child scramble to the top of a climbing frame, or held your breath while they negotiated a muddy bank on a bush walk, you're ...

Reading Together: How Milestones Celebrated National Simultaneous Storytime 2026

01 Jun 2026

Every year, there's a moment when children across Australia, in libraries, classrooms, preschools, and homes, sit down and hear the same story at exactly the same time. On Wednesday 27 ...

National Reconciliation Week 2026 – How We Learn From and Celebrate Country With Children

26 May 2026

National Reconciliation Week runs from 27 May to 3 June each year, marking two of the most significant milestones in Australia's reconciliation journey - the 1967 referendum and the 1992 ...

What learning really looks like for babies, toddlers and preschoolers

21 May 2026

There's a moment most parents experience in the car on the way home from childcare. You ask your child what they did today. They say "nothing" or "played." And you're ...

When Should I Enrol My Child in Childcare?

01 May 2026

Whether you're newly pregnant, on parental leave, or simply starting to think about returning to work, the question of when to enrol your child in childcare comes up sooner than ...

Child Development Milestones: What to Expect from Birth to School Age

21 Apr 2026

Every child grows in their own way and at their own pace. But as a parent, it's completely natural to wonder: is my child where they should be? Whether you're ...

Who Looks After Your Child? Understanding Educator Qualifications at Milestones

14 Apr 2026

When you drop your child off at Milestones, you're doing something that takes real trust. You're handing over the most important person in your world to a team of people ...

Exploring the Nawi: How Children Learn Through Culture, Storytelling and Play

30 Mar 2026

At Milestones Early Learning Blaxland, a group of children recently gathered around a collection of natural materials - bark, stones, small figures - and began to build. They were creating ...

Nourishing Little Bodies This Autumn: What’s New on the Menu at Milestones

20 Mar 2026

As the weather starts to cool and routines settle into a new rhythm, autumn is the perfect time to slow down, get cosy, and enjoy nourishing, comforting meals. At Milestones ...

How Friendships in Early Childhood Build Resilience

24 Feb 2026

There's a moment most parents recognise. Your child wants to join a game. They hover. They wait. They finally say, "Can I play?" Sometimes it works beautifully. Sometimes it doesn't. ...

Big Feelings Explained: What’s Normal for Toddlers and Preschoolers?

04 Feb 2026

If you're parenting a toddler or preschooler, chances are you've seen big feelings arrive fast and loud, sometimes over something that feels very small. Tears over the wrong cup. Anger ...

Tips From an Educator to Help Your Child Sleep Better

21 Jan 2026

If sleep has felt unpredictable, exhausting, or even overwhelming lately, you're not alone. Many parents of babies, toddlers and preschoolers go through phases where sleep seems to unravel just as ...

A Gentle Start Back: Supporting Your Child’s Return to Childcare After the Holidays

07 Jan 2026

The first drop-off after the holidays can feel heavier than you expect. You might have spent the past few weeks enjoying slower mornings, extra cuddles, family time and a softer ...

Milestones Early Learning Bairnsdale. Quality child care in Bairnsdale for ages 0-5.

Summer Is Coming: Helping Your Family Stay Sun-Safe This Season

16 Dec 2025

There's something special about an Australian summer - longer days, outdoor adventures, and plenty of time spent in the sunshine. As the warmer months approach, sun safety becomes more important ...

Childcare & Early Learning in Townsville: Discover Milestones Centres Across the Region

08 Dec 2025

Choosing childcare is a big moment for any family. You want a place where your child feels safe and welcomed, where the educators genuinely care, and where your little one ...

Childcare & Early Learning in Darwin: A Warm Welcome to Milestones

08 Dec 2025

Choosing a childcare centre is a big decision. You're looking for a place where your child will feel safe, supported, and happy, and where the people caring for them genuinely ...

Fresh, Colourful & Kid Approved: Our New Summer Menu Is Here!

02 Dec 2025

If you're anything like me, you care a lot about what your child eats during the day. You want to know they're getting the good stuff - the veggies, the ...

CCS & the 3 Day Guarantee: What Milestones Families Are Asking Right Now

13 Nov 2025

Over the past few weeks, lots of Milestones families have reached out with questions about the upcoming Child Care Subsidy (CCS) changes, especially the new 3 Day Guarantee starting in ...

Holiday Hustle? How Casual Child Care Days Can Help You Stay Sane This Silly Season

04 Nov 2025

The end of the year always seems to arrive in a blur - work deadlines, school concerts, Christmas shopping, family get-togethers, and a never-ending list of things to do. If ...

Screens & Under-5s: The Current Australian Guidelines (and Easy Swaps)

28 Oct 2025

Quick Takeaways Under 2 years: No sedentary screen time (video calls are fine). Ages 2-5: Aim for less than one hour per day of recreational screen time. Co-viewing beats solo ...

Fresh, Healthy & Delicious: Our New Spring Menu at Milestones

11 Sep 2025

At Milestones, we believe that good nutrition is the foundation for happy, healthy learning. That's why every season, our chefs and educators work with Feed Australia, a leading menu planning ...

Together We Shine: Celebrating the Team Around Your Child This Early Childhood Educator Day

01 Sep 2025

At Milestones Early Learning, we know it takes a village to raise a child, and we're proud to be part of yours. As a parent, you juggle a million things ...

Toilet Training: Top Tips from Our Educators (and What to Expect Along the Way)

26 Aug 2025

Post updated August 2025. Toilet training is a milestone in every toddler's journey, and often just as big for parents! At Milestones Early Learning, we know it can feel overwhelming ...

Brave Smiles: Helping Your Child Visit the Dentist for the First Time

19 Aug 2025

Yesterday I took my 3-year-old to the dentist for the very first time. We'd spoken about being brave on the way, and while she tried her best, when the big ...

Book Week 2025: Fun Ideas to Inspire a Love of Reading in Your Preschooler

12 Aug 2025

If you've ever seen a group of preschoolers dressed as wizards, animals, or superheroes, you'll know just how magical Book Week can be. Book Week 2025 is not only a ...

Mini Scientists: How Children Discover the Hidden Patterns of the World Around Them

05 Aug 2025

If your toddler has ever lined up all their blocks in a row or your kindy child has asked why the moon is out during the day, you've already witnessed ...

Milestones Warners Bay | Early Education & Child Care in Warners Bay | Children enjoy messy play

New Child Care Subsidy Changes in 2026: What the 3 Day Guarantee Means for Your Family

23 Jul 2025

From January 2026, more families will be able to access three days of subsidised early learning, even if they don't meet the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) activity test. This update, ...

Affinity Education Statement on Charges Laid by Victoria Police – Latest Update

15 Jul 2025

This page was first published on 2 July 2025 and updated on 15 July 2025. Updates relating to the charges laid by Victoria Police on a former Affinity Education employee ...

How to Celebrate NAIDOC Week with Your Child (Even If You’re Still Learning Too)

07 Jul 2025

"Mummy, what's that flag?" We were walking past the local library when my 3-year-old stopped and pointed to the Aboriginal flag hanging in the window. I paused. I didn't have ...

How to Create a Meaningful Play-and-Learn Nook at Home (Without Spending a Fortune)

24 Jun 2025

In the middle of a busy household, where dishes pile up, emails buzz, and toys seem to multiply, it can feel impossible to carve out space for calm, focused play. ...

Stress-Free Morning Tips to Get Everyone Out the Door (Even with a Toddler in Tow)

19 Jun 2025

It's 7:42am. Your toddler's crying because their banana broke. You've reheated your coffee twice but still haven't taken a sip. Drop-off is looming, your work bag's half-packed, and your child ...

Milestones Mount Riverview | Early Education & Child Care in Mount Riverview | Educator and children reading a book

Why Reading to Your Child (Even as a Baby!) Is One of the Best Things You Can Do

17 Jun 2025

There's something incredibly special about reading with your child. Whether it's a snuggly bedtime story, a giggle-filled picture book on the couch, or a quiet moment with your baby in ...

Milestones Toronto | Early Education & Child Care in Toronto | Child reads a book at Milestones Toronto

How to Support Your Child If They Feel Nervous Around New People or Settings

12 Jun 2025

"You stood at the edge of the playground, holding my hand so tightly. I smiled and encouraged you to go play, but your feet stayed planted. I didn't understand - ...

Milestones Mount Riverview | Early Education & Child Care in Mount Riverview | Child in the sandpit

How to Manage and Support Big Feelings and Tantrums in Toddlers

10 Jun 2025

As parents, navigating the world of toddler tantrums can feel like a whirlwind. One moment your little one is smiling and playful, and the next, they're in tears, kicking and ...

Back to Work: How to Make the Transition Easier for Both You and Your Child

05 Jun 2025

Returning to work after spending time at home with your little one can stir up all kinds of emotions - excitement, guilt, relief, anxiety, and everything in between. Whether you're ...

Talk, Listen, Learn: Simple Everyday Conversations That Boost Your Toddler’s Language Development

03 Jun 2025

Did you know some of the most powerful learning moments happen during the simplest parts of your day - like brushing teeth, packing lunch, or walking to the car? At ...

Sharing Is Caring: How to Help Toddlers and Preschoolers Learn Turn-Taking (Without the Tears)

27 May 2025

If you've ever watched two little ones grapple over a toy truck, you'll know that sharing doesn't always come naturally. But here's the good news: sharing and turn-taking are skills ...

Learning from the Land: How Milestones Children Connect with First Nations Culture

26 May 2025

At Milestones, we believe every child should grow up with a strong sense of belonging - to their community, to Country, and to the stories that shape who we are ...

Sweet Dreams Start Here: Practical Tips to Create a Safe, Comforting Sleep Environment at Home

22 May 2025

There's something truly special about those quiet moments before your child drifts off to sleep - the gentle hush of the room, the soft snuggle of their favourite blanket, the ...

Bubbles, Brushes and Bedtime Routines: Helping Your Child Learn Healthy Hygiene Habits

20 May 2025

If brushing teeth feels like a battle, or your toddler screams at the sight of shampoo - you're not alone. These early years are magical, messy, and full of learning, ...

Caring for Creatures Great and Small: How Your Family Can Help Local Wildlife Thrive

13 May 2025

If your little one lights up at the sight of a butterfly, insists on rescuing snails from the footpath, or could spend hours digging in the garden, you're not alone. ...

Milestones Mount Riverview | Early Education & Child Care in Mount Riverview | Reading zone

Little Detectives: How Inquiry-Based Projects Prepare Your Child for Big School

09 May 2025

If your child has ever asked, "How do bees make honey?" or "Why do clouds float?" - you're not alone. At Milestones Early Learning, we believe those curious little questions ...

Homegrown Learning: 10 Easy Activities to Boost School Readiness

06 May 2025

If you've ever wondered whether your child is 'school ready' - you're not alone. Many parents feel a little unsure, especially if this is your first time navigating the journey ...

Is Your Child Ready for School? The 5 Key Skills That Matter Most

01 May 2025

A simple guide to school readiness in Australia for families with children aged 3-5. If you've been wondering "What should my child know before starting school?", you're not alone. For ...

Milestones Blaxland | Early Education & Child Care in Blaxland | Educators and children enjoy fun activities at Milestones Blaxland

Dance Like Nobody’s Watching: How Movement Builds Confidence in Young Children

29 Apr 2025

Celebrating International Dance Day - 29 April. Have you ever watched your child break into a spontaneous wiggle mid-walk, or twirl across the kitchen like nobody's watching? That joyful, free ...

Wellness on a Plate: Immune-Boosting Zucchini Slice Recipe

22 Apr 2025

As the weather cools and sniffles start to spread, many families are looking for nourishing meals that help support growing bodies and boost little immune systems. At Milestones Early Learning, ...

Start Your Own Little Garden at Home: Easy Ideas for Families

17 Apr 2025

Celebrate Earth Day with hands-on learning, nature play, and a little bit of garden magic! With Earth Day coming up on 22 April, there's no better time to roll up ...

Little Bodies, Big Energy: Supporting Movement and Play at Every Age

15 Apr 2025

If you've ever watched your toddler sprint in circles for no reason or seen your preschooler jump, spin, and climb like they're training for a circus - you're not alone. ...

Quality Child Care Builds Confident Kids: How We Support Emotional Wellbeing at Milestones

10 Apr 2025

Whether it's a tearful goodbye at drop-off, a shy wave to a new friend, or the proud moment your child says "I did it!" - early childhood is full of ...

Pumpkin, Lentil and Pasta Soup Recipe: A Milestones Family Favourite

09 Apr 2025

At Milestones Early Learning, we know how important nutritious meals are - especially during the early years, when children's bodies and brains are growing fast. That's why our menus focus ...

Media Statement

07 Apr 2025

Response to 7:30 Report We appreciate the opportunity to respond to recent media stories regarding the early childhood education and care sector including the 7:30 Report aired on Monday 7th ...

Healthy Habits Start Early: How Milestones Supports Your Child’s Wellbeing

03 Apr 2025

Celebrating World Health Day - 7 April At Milestones Early Learning, every day is an opportunity to support the health and wellbeing of the children in our care. This World ...

Easter Fun for the Whole Family: Nature-Inspired Activities to Try This Long Weekend

01 Apr 2025

The Easter long weekend is a beautiful time to pause, play, and enjoy a few slow, meaningful moments together as a family. Whether your family celebrates Easter or simply welcomes ...

Sensory Play in Autumn: Fun Activities to Try at Home

05 Mar 2025

Autumn is here, bringing crisp air, colourful leaves, and plenty of opportunities for hands-on, messy play with your little one! At Milestones Early Learning, we love incorporating the changing seasons ...

Moroccan Lamb with Couscous – A Healthy Recipe for Kids

03 Mar 2025

Looking for a wholesome, family-friendly meal that's easy to prepare and packed with nutrition? Moroccan Lamb with Couscous is a warm and comforting dish that brings a taste of North ...

Building Bright Futures: How Milestones Early Learning Centres Foster Foundational Learning

21 Feb 2025

The early years of a child's life are a time of rapid brain development, curiosity, and learning. Every experience shapes a child's cognitive, social, and emotional skills, setting the foundation ...

Growing Hearts: Teaching Young Children the Joy of Kindness at Milestones Early Learning

14 Feb 2025

At Milestones Early Learning, we believe that kindness is more than just good manners. In our centres throughout Australia, we create an environment where children learn to express kindness and ...

Beef and Bean Burritos – A Healthy and Easy Meal for Kids

13 Feb 2025

At Milestones, we know that mealtimes are about more than just filling hungry tummies-they're an opportunity for children to enjoy delicious, nourishing food while developing healthy habits that will last ...

The Power of Social Development in Early Childhood: How Milestones Early Learning Fosters Social Connectivity

05 Feb 2025

From the moment they are born, children begin forming connections with the world around them. Social development in early childhood - the ability to form meaningful relationships with peers, educators, ...

Emotional Confidence in Early Childhood: Why It’s Important and Key Milestones

23 Jan 2025

The first five years of a child's life are a time of incredible growth - physically, mentally, and emotionally. Among these early developments, emotional confidence stands out as a cornerstone ...

Family responsibilities, policies and procedures

Sun Safety for Little Learners: How Milestones Early Learning Keeps Your Child Safe Under the Sun

16 Jan 2025

Australia is renowned for its sunny weather, but with great sunshine comes great responsibility. Protecting young children from harmful UV rays is crucial to their health and well-being. At Milestones ...

Unleashing the Benefits of Messy Play: How it Enhances Toddler Development

08 Jan 2025

Does your toddler love exploring, squishing, and creating? Messy play may look chaotic, but it's a goldmine for their development! From enhancing fine motor skills to sparking creativity, messy play ...

The Best Educational Toys for Babies, Toddlers, and Preschoolers

04 Dec 2024

Choosing the right toys for your child can feel overwhelming. How do you find something that's fun, engaging, and supports their development? At Milestones Early Learning, we've done the research ...

Milestones Mount Riverview | Early Education & Child Care in Mount Riverview | Kid enjoys play time

Child Care and Immunity: What Every Parent Should Know About Sickness and Long-Term Health

20 Nov 2024

When starting child care, many parents worry about their child catching colds or other common illnesses. It's an understandable concern, but did you know that these early encounters with germs ...

Child learning digital skills on an interactive screen in school readiness program

The Role of Digital Literacy in Preparing Children for School and Beyond

12 Nov 2024

Today's classrooms and workplaces are increasingly digital, making digital literacy a foundational skill that children need as they grow. Digital literacy in early childhood isn't just about screen time; it's ...

Choosing the Best Child Care in Australia: Why Milestones’ Lifelong Learning Curriculum Stands Out

06 Nov 2024

Choosing the best child care is a crucial decision for any parent. At Milestones Early Learning, our Lifelong Learning Curriculum is widely regarded as the most advanced approach to early ...

Why Cultural Diversity Matters in Early Childhood Education

30 Oct 2024

Post updated July 2025. As parents, we all want our children to grow up feeling confident, connected, and kind. That's why it's so important to introduce them to different cultures, ...

Milestones Mount Riverview | Early Education & Child Care in Mount Riverview | Children enjoy outdoor play time

What to Look for in a High-Quality Child Care Centre

23 Oct 2024

Choosing the right child care centre is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know what ...

Children forming friendships at Milestones Early Learning

Building Friendships, Building Confidence: How Early Friendships Prepare Your Child for School

16 Oct 2024

As parents, one of the biggest milestones we look forward to is our child starting school. It's an exciting time, but it can also be a little daunting - especially ...

Safe Sleep at Child Care: Creating a Secure Sleep Environment for Babies at Milestones

09 Oct 2024

At Milestones Early Learning, we know that ensuring your baby's safety is your top priority, especially during sleep. Quality sleep is not only vital for your baby's growth and development ...

Story Time Adventures: Our Favourite Children’s Books to Read Together

26 Sep 2024

Story time is a magical way to bond with your child while helping them develop essential language and social skills. At Milestones Early Learning, we use story time as a ...

Feeling Torn About Returning to Work? Here’s How Child Care Can Be a Positive Step for Your Baby

25 Sep 2024

As a parent, the thought of returning to work after parental leave can bring up a lot of emotions. You may feel torn between wanting to be at home with ...

Food, Fun, & Friends: Why Group Mealtime Matters for Child Development

13 Sep 2024

Group mealtime is more than just eating - it's a valuable opportunity for children to learn essential life skills. At Milestones Early Learning, we recognise that shared meals help foster ...

Promoting Positive Self-Esteem in Young Children

12 Sep 2024

Helping young children develop a strong sense of self-worth is one of the most important things we can do to set them up for success. A healthy sense of self-esteem ...

Sustainable Learning, Sustainable Futures: How Environmental Education Leads to Lifelong Success

04 Sep 2024

As parents, we all want to give our children the best start in life - one that equips them not only with knowledge but with the values and habits that ...

Superheroes in Disguise: How Early Childhood Educators Save the Day (and Your Sanity!)

28 Aug 2024

When it comes to superheroes, most of us picture capes, masks, and superpowers. But what if we told you that some of the most powerful superheroes are the ones without ...

Milestones Blaxland | Early Education & Child Care in Blaxland | Outdoor area of Milestones Blaxland childcare centre

How Play-Based Physical Activities Boost Literacy Development in Children

19 Aug 2024

Play is a fundamental part of childhood, and it's also one of the most powerful tools for learning. For young children, play-based physical activities like obstacle courses, climbing frames, and ...

Maximising Your Child Care Subsidy: Tips for Families

09 Aug 2024

Navigating the world of child care can be challenging, especially when it comes to understanding how to make the most of the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) in Australia. Whether you're ...

How to Develop Maths & Numeracy Skills from Birth

02 Aug 2024

Maths and numeracy skills are foundational to a child's development and success in life. But did you know that these skills can be nurtured right from birth? Engaging in simple, ...

A Day in the Life of a Preschooler at Milestones

26 Jul 2024

At Milestones Early Learning, every day is carefully structured to foster growth, learning, and fun, providing a nurturing environment that supports the holistic development of each child. The integrated child ...

Stem education in early childhood education will help close the gender gap

How Early Exposure to STEM can Help Close the Gender Gap in These Fields

12 Jul 2024

Early exposure to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is essential for closing the gender gap in these fields. This blog explores how introducing STEM concepts early can challenge stereotypes, ...

Milestones Early Learning in Swansea. Quality child care in Swansea for ages 0-5.

How to Help Children Develop School Readiness

05 Jul 2024

Starting school is an important stage in your child's life. Before they start though, a child should ideally have developed a range of basic skills and knowledge to help them ...

Milestones Early Learning in Swansea. Quality child care in Swansea for ages 0-5. | How we transition children from one activity to another at Milestones

How To Help Children Transition From One Activity To Another

07 Jun 2024

There are many times during the day when children have to stop doing one activity and transition on to another. For example, leaving the playground to go home, or putting ...

The Importance of Parent Teacher Interviews in Early Education

31 May 2024

Three times a year Milestones' educators complete a Progress Record to assess your child's learning progress in relation to key developmental areas. After completing a Progress Record, we work with ...

The benefits of sandpit play for toddlers

Exploring the World Through Sand: Why Sandpit Play Is So Good for Toddlers

16 May 2024

Post updated July 2025. There's something magical about a toddler discovering the world one handful of sand at a time. Whether it's the feeling of grains slipping through fingers or ...

Splish Splash! The Surprising Benefits of Water Play for Toddlers

07 May 2024

Post updated July 2025. There's something magical about a toddler, barefoot in the sunshine, giggling as they splash water from one cup to another. For our little ones, water play ...

Get to know your National Quality Standards – Series 5

11 Apr 2024

Welcome to the fifth instalment of our National Quality Standards seven-part series, where we provide an in-depth look into the seven quality areas benchmarked against the Australian Children's Education and Care ...

Affinity Education has partnered with Wandana Aboriginal Education to deliver immersive cultural experiences for children at Milestones Early Learning Centres.

Affinity Expands Lifelong Learning Curriculum Through Partnership With Wandana Aboriginal Education

11 Apr 2024

Affinity Education Group has announced the latest addition to the Lifelong Learning Curriculum - a partnership with Wandana Aboriginal Education to deliver purpose-built Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural education. ...

We leverage the expertise of academic professionals and integrate evidence-based practices into our curriculum to enhance the learning journey.

Supporting Your Child’s Learning Journey: The Early Years Toolbox

11 Apr 2024

Affinity Education Group has proudly partnered with the University of Wollongong with the aim of enhancing the capabilities of our Teachers and Educators working with children in our School Readiness ...

Using Research To Meet Your Child’s Developmental Needs

11 Apr 2024

The Lifelong Learning Curriculum was developed through extensive study of how children learn, what they learn and where they learn. At the Early Experiences age, research shows that children are ...

Improving Language and Thinking Skills in Infants; A Data Informed Approach

11 Apr 2024

The recent data from the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) proposed an increase in Language and Cognitive development of vulnerable children. Based on these findings and other relevant research on ...

Random Acts of Kindness Day: Teaching Acts of Kindness to Children

29 Jan 2024

Saturday 17th of February 2024 is Random Acts Of Kindness Day! This annual event was created by the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation (RAK), a nonprofit organization dedicated to establishing ...

Supporting The Progression To Big School

29 Jan 2024

With Graduation done and dusted, you and your child may be nervous about the transition into Big School. Here are five tips to support your child with this significant milestone ...

How We Transition Your Child To A New Room

29 Jan 2024

Happy New Year! The holiday season is over, and it's time to return to our daily routines. It's incredible to see how quickly our children are growing up. This month, ...

Early Education: Navigating the First Weeks

29 Jan 2024

The journey begins when your young child's education starts in the early childhood centre. The process of setting up orientation days and helping your child adjust to the new environment, ...

Get to know your National Quality Standards – Series 4

29 Jan 2024

Welcome to the fourth installment of our National Quality Standards seven-part series, where we provide an in-depth look into the seven quality areas benchmarked against the Australian Children's Education and ...

Learning With Dr. Lesley Jones: New Year, New Rooms

29 Jan 2024

This month we welcome many children and families to our Centres for the first time. We also welcome back the many thousands of children who will be transitioning into new ...

Transitioning to a new room and on to primary school

Unveiling a New Chapter: Milestones Early Learning Seaford Grand Opening!

12 Jan 2024

We are thrilled to share the exciting news of the opening of Milestones Early Learning Seaford, marking the third purpose-built centre by Affinity Education Group in Victoria with a pipeline ...

This Year’s Top 5 Most Captivating Reads

19 Dec 2023

This year has provided a wonderful opportunity to explore a multitude of Early Education topics in depth. Discover which of our blog articles from 2023 our families and Educators loved ...

2023 Affinity Awards Open for Nominations

24 Nov 2023

Affinity Education Group is excited to announce the launch of its yearly national awards, celebrating outstanding achievements and excellence within the Early Education and Care sector. This year, the awards ...

Educational Programs During the Festive Season

23 Nov 2023

Summer Program Launch In preparation for 2024, we're launching two exceptional programs that will run across December and January for all of our children, from the nursery through to preschool ...

Attending Early Education During the Holidays

22 Nov 2023

The holiday period is such an exciting time for children and families, but it can also be busy and stressful. When your child is enrolled in a Milestones Learning Centre, ...

Festive Learning in the Nursery

22 Nov 2023

Research shows that children's development and learning is continuous. There are plenty of opportunities to learn regardless of the season. There are two important reasons why children benefit from care ...

Navigating End of Year Transitions

22 Nov 2023

The Lifelong Learning Curriculum offers an abundance of research-based practices that ensure continuous learning during the holiday season. As a parent, you may wonder what development your child is progressing ...

Get to know your National Quality Standards – Series 3

22 Nov 2023

Welcome to the third instalment of our National Quality Standards series, where we highlight the importance of implementing the seven key Quality Standards throughout all Lifelong Learning Centres. National Quality ...

Affinity Increases Commitment to The Smith Family

15 Nov 2023

Active Commitment to Sponsorship Affinity Education Group has further strengthened its commitment to The Smith Family Learning for Life program in the third quarter of 2023. The number of individual ...

Milestones Toddler Room Educator Playing Learning

Get to know your National Quality Standards – Series 2

03 Nov 2023

Welcome to the second part of our National Quality Standards seven-part series, where we provide an in-depth look into the seven quality areas benchmarked against the Australian Children's Education and ...

Milestones Kindy Preschool Room Childcare

Benefits of attending Early Childhood and Care during the Holiday period

03 Nov 2023

Effective early childhood education is of utmost importance in a successful transition to school and love for Lifelong Learning. Our LLC program is dedicated to ensuring this is achieved all ...

What do infants achieve in an Early Childhood Education environment?

03 Nov 2023

It is natural to wonder whether infants and young children can benefit from time spent in an early childhood environment. At Affinity Education-owned centres, our Lifelong Learning Curriculum (LLC) begins ...

The importance of using the Abecedarian approach to improve toddlers’ language skills

03 Nov 2023

Language is a crucial component of school readiness. No matter a child's age, they actively develop skills to become proficient and active communicators. Research shows that language development is best ...

The Lifelong Learning Curriculum – a guide for families

31 Oct 2023

This month, we are highlighting the Lifelong Learning Curriculum, Australia's most advanced approach to early education that operates within all our Milestones Early Learning Centres. Our Educators implement this program ...

Summer Program Sessions

27 Oct 2023

Your child is invited to join us during our Summer Program! Throughout December, we have planned additional exciting activities to help your child continue their early learning journey whilst benefiting ...

Milestones Educator Participates in Leadership Training

16 Oct 2023

Milestones Early Learning South Townsville Assistant Centre Manager Joanne Sawtell is one of 10 Affinity Education Group employees who participated in the 2023 ELACCA 'From the Ground Up' leadership project ...

The Importance of Friendships and Relationships in Childcare

05 Oct 2023

This month, we wanted to share with you a little more about early childhood education, what it means, and how it works, and give you a glimpse of what your ...

Get to know your National Quality Standards

05 Oct 2023

Our childcare centres are committed to a continuous improvement journey that enriches quality education and care delivery benchmarked against the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards. With ...

How friendships are formed

05 Oct 2023

There is so much research and focus on just how crucial the first five years of a child's life are and how this has an impact on social, emotional and ...

Guiding your Toddlers future behaviours and relationships

05 Oct 2023

When children reach the Toddler stage, their confidence blooms as they know you are there to catch them if they fall. Early Experiences Curriculum They become more curious about anything ...

Why friendships before ‘Big School’ are so important

04 Oct 2023

Research continues to highlight the importance of the first five years of a child's life as the most critical period in the life span for brain development (Fox & Geddes, ...

Ahoy! Milestones Dalyellup Celebrates Talk Like A Pirate Day

03 Oct 2023

Milestones Early Learning Centres hold a range of activity-filled events, fundraisers and awareness drives throughout the year, with each centre having some autonomy to choose days they celebrate with the ...

It’s Safe Work Month at Milestones

03 Oct 2023

National Safe Work Month is upon us! Milestones Early Learning Centres have jam-packed this October with a variety of events and programs to highlight the steps our centres and their ...

Aussie Wildlife Champions Dress Up and Donate Success

28 Sep 2023

Through the second and third week of September, all our Milestones centres participated in the Aussie Wildlife Champions fundraiser drive for the Australian Wildlife Conservancy. A part of this fundraiser ...

A day in the life – Childcare and your child’s development

08 Sep 2023

This month, we wanted to share with you a little more about early childhood education, what it means, and how it works, and give you a glimpse of what your ...

How my Educators get me School Ready

06 Sep 2023

Early Childhood Education has proven to play a major role in a child's transition to school, and here at Milestones, we have passionate Educators and Early Childhood Teachers who deliver ...

A day in the life of a Toddler

06 Sep 2023

Every day in our Toddler room is filled with different types of learning that your child's Educators have intentionally planned to support children's growth and learning outcomes. From the moment ...

A Day of ‘Awe’ and ‘Wonder’ in your Nursery

05 Sep 2023

When thinking about a typical day in the Nursery, it is common to have preconceptions about what happens and how the educators facilitate learning. Through online research and centre tours, ...

Milestones Celebrates Book Week!

04 Sep 2023

Over the week of the 21st of August, our Milestones centres celebrated book week through the power of dress up, imagination and creativity as our Educators and Teachers developed learning ...

Finalist Outstanding Educator in NTEC Awards 2023

04 Sep 2023

We are excited to announce that our very own Gabriela Savio, Lead Educator for Milestones Early Learning Darwin City, has been chosen from more than 30 nominees as one of ...

Milestones get ‘active’ for National Science Week!

25 Aug 2023

Last week, all Milestones Early Learning Centres participated in National Science Week, one of our more loved and educational events of the year for our children, educators and teachers! National ...

What the Child Care Subsidy mean for our families?

08 Aug 2023

What does the new Child Care Subsidy mean for families? On the 10 July 2023, the Australian Government increasing the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) rates for families within Australia, resulting ...

Saying ‘Thank you!’ on Early Childhood Educators Day

07 Aug 2023

The countdown is on to Wednesday, the 6th of September, when our centres will celebrate Early Childhood Educators Day. We're inviting all families and caregivers to make a special effort ...

Get involved for National Science Week!

07 Aug 2023

National Science Week is fast approaching, with the official date to launch from the 12th all the way through to the 20th of August. All our Milestones Early Learning Centres ...

Lifelong Learning Curriculum for children aged 0-5 years. Exclusive to Affinity Education Group owned child care centres in Australia.

Sensory Play for Every Age: How Messy Moments Help Your Child Learn and Grow

07 Aug 2023

Post updated July 2025. Sensory play, sometimes called messy play or hands-on play, is more than just fun. It's one of the most powerful ways young children learn about their ...

Your little junior is graduating! Whats next?

04 Aug 2023

Graduating from the junior rooms to the older 3-5-year old programs is a significant and exciting transition for young children. In this article, we unpack what families can expect as ...

Successful transitions through care and trust

04 Aug 2023

Secure relationships… the key to transitioning into care through our Healthy Beginnings Curriculum. Transitioning into care for the first time can often feel daunting for families and full of natural ...

Easing Separation Anxiety

04 Aug 2023

Separation anxiety is common in young children, it occurs when children are feeling nervous about being away from their parents or carers. Read this article as we unpack what separation ...

Dont miss our Preschool/Kindergarten information sessions

04 Aug 2023

It's that time of year when families begin to turn their attention to deciding where their child should be enrolled for their preschool or kindergarten year. Enquire Now Find Your ...

Effective room transitioning in early childcare

03 Aug 2023

Graduating from one room to the next is a significant event for children, their families and educators alike. In this article we explore what you can expect as your child ...

Tummy Time is an essential activity for a baby’s development

02 Aug 2023

Tummy Time is an essential activity for a baby's development and is a regularly encouraging exercise for our centres 0-1 children in our Nursery rooms. Tummy Time is the activity ...

Healthy Beginnings (birth – 1year)

02 Aug 2023

The Lifelong Learning Healthy Beginnings Curriculum for babies birth-1-year-olds emphasises the establishment of secure attachments and positive relationships between babies and educators through the use of Circle of Security and learning zones focused on play schemas ...