Head of Early Learning Centre

Father's Day is a beautiful opportunity for our Early Learning Centre (ELC) children to celebrate the special men who shape their lives, while strengthening the sense of belonging and community that sits at the heart of everything we do. 

For children aged three to five years, the presence of a loving father figure plays a vital role in healthy development. Research consistently shows that positive engagement from dads, grandfathers, uncles, or other father figures supports children's emotional security, builds confidence, and encourages exploration of the world around them. Young children thrive when they see the important adults in their lives actively involved in their learning environment — it reinforces the message that they are valued, seen, and supported both at home and at the ELC. 

Father figures often bring their own unique style of play and interaction — a little more adventurous, sometimes more physical, wonderfully different from everyday routines — and this variety enriches a child's social and emotional development. When the dads and father figures stepped into the ELC classrooms this week for our Father’s Day celebrations, the children beamed with pride, eager to show off their space, their friends, and their learning. 

The children hosted their dads and special guests for in-classroom celebrations designed to create lasting memories and meaningful connections. The celebrations included shared craft activities, story reading, singing and the presentation of handmade gifts. 

When families feel welcomed and included in classroom life, children experienced a stronger sense of belonging, and educators build deeper, more trusting relationships with the families they support. 

We warmly thank all the dads, stepdads, grandfathers, uncles, and father figures who joined us for this special celebration. Your presence meant the world to your little one and to our whole ELC community. 

Ms Sarah Bethune 

Head of ELC