Belonging, Being, and Becoming: The 3 Pillars of the EYLF

Raising a child is an incredible journey, but with so much on your plate, it’s easy to wonder: how can you ensure your little one is thriving, not just surviving?

In this article, we’ll share our thoughts on how the Early Years Learning Framework’s three foundational pillars shape children’s lives. Discover what they are, what they mean, and how they help your child grow!

Belonging, Being, and Becoming are the three pillar concepts of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). These “pillars” support the learning structures that help shape young minds. Focusing on learning through play, they anchor children’s experiences during their formative years.

The EYLF is one of the two approved learning frameworks within the larger National Quality Framework. Designed to ensure a complete approach to early childhood education, it promotes children’s learning from birth to 5 years and emphasises learning the skills to take part fully and actively in society.

• Learn more about the Early Years Learning Framework here

The EYLF conveys the highest expectations for all children’s learning outcomes and focuses on the importance of identity, community, well-being, learning, and communication in early childhood.

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Belonging is integral to human existence, particularly within the context of children’s relationships with family, cultural groups, and the wider community. It’s about feeling connected and forming secure attachments with family and caregivers, which are crucial for thriving. Creating a strong sense of belonging shapes children’s lives, their identity and relationships, creating a culturally inclusive environment where every child feels valued.

At Grace Village, our educators foster belonging by creating strong relationships and celebrating diversity. They ensure each child sees their culture reflected in daily activities, promoting a sense of worth and security.

“Being” encourages children to live in the moment and explore their world through sensory experiences. It’s about immersing themselves fully in their daily activities, meeting challenges, learning outcomes, and discovering the joys and complexities of everyday life.

At Grace Village, we create environments rich with sensory experiences. Children engage in play-based learning, sparking curiosity and imagination. They learn about emotions and respectful interactions, building self-awareness and emotional well-being.

“Becoming” focuses on nurturing each child’s potential. It’s about letting their skills and abilities unfold like a flower blooming. Children learn how to participate in society as part of this process. The framework also provides care and development opportunities for school-age children.

At Grace Village, we foster this journey by helping your child develop key skills across various domains. They build literacy through storytelling, numeracy through hands-on activities, and creativity through art. Children develop resilience and critical thinking by tackling challenges and fostering independence and agency through choice and participation.

Belonging, Being, and Becoming are essential threads for children’s growth. Belonging builds their foundation. Being lets them experience everyday life. Becoming shapes their potential.

At Grace Village, our passion for exceeding the standards set by the National Quality Framework helps us to create environments where children grow and flourish, embracing these three pillars of the EYLF.

As parents and educators, it is our mission to promote children’s learning and development, towards futures filled with knowledge and wisdom.

To us, these pillars aren’t just an idea. They are the essence of Grace Village Early Learning. Because it takes a village to raise a child.

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