Quality can be defined as an 'environment of relationships' where the consistency of interactions and attachments are the first, middle and end point of early childhood learning and care’. The quality and stability of a child’s relationships in early childhood lay the foundation for intellectual, social, emotional, physical and moral development. 'Interactions and Relationships for the under 3’s' is a practical programme that puts the spotlight on the importance of engagement and interaction strategies with very young children. The programme includes 4 components that will support educators to understand how interactions and relationships underpin quality early childhood practice. The main component of the programme explores a variety of practical everday interaction strategies and techniques for the professional educator.  The programme contains 2 self reflective excercises to enable the educator to reflect on their own practice.  The Resource Document section contains useful handouts and information blogs.   

Participation is a deliberate process put into place to give children the opportunity to express their views, influence decision making and achieve change. Participation is underpinned by a child rights approach. The ‘Seeing Voices’ programme will give educators a sound framework from which to understand participation in the context of early childhood education and care.  A range of practical strategies and activities for engaging children and including them in decision making processes in the early childhood setting are included.  The Resource Documents section contains printable handouts to support the programme content and a Certificate of Participation is saved to the educator profile on completion.  

Loose Parts are any open-ended materials that you can give to children that have no directions or instructions. With no prescribed method of play or end product, items can be used entirely at the discretion of the child. Loose parts play is a valuable contributor to an emergent curriculum approach. The 'Loose Parts Play' programme contains lots of practical and visual inspiration to make loose parts play a significant component of an emergent curriculum for the under 3’s, preschool and school age children.  The Resource Documents section contains printable handouts to support the programme content and a Certificate of Participation is saved to the educator profile on completion. IMPORTANT* Before you start - please read 'NOTES FOR THE COURSE'. This contains important information to help you navigate the site if you are undertaking a programme for the first time.