Playfulness, curiosity and innovation to be explored at upcoming early childhood conference
Media Release
For Immediate Release
What part do playfulness, curiosity and innovation play in the early learning environment? How does play and curiosity lead to innovation? And most importantly, what role do educators play in this process?
The In Pursuit of Playfulness, Curiosity and Innovation conference – run by Gowrie NSW alongside UTS Child Care and Campus Life (Macquarie University) will feature a long list of high-calibre speakers who will unravel these questions this August.
“Many early childhood education and care services have such a focus on ‘outcomes’ that they sometimes forget what the priority actually is – children!” Maria Bennett, Children’s Services Manager at Campus Life Macquarie University, said.
“Playfulness, curiosity and innovation are all attributes that we see as important to instill in children to help prepare them to be active contributors to future society,” Ms Bennett said. “If we want to be an ‘innovation nation’ then we need to encourage a desire to be innovative from a young age.”
The conference, to be held at the University of Technology Sydney, will offer practical strategies for early childhood educators that aim to foster and facilitate an environment of curiosity and playfulness for children.
Debra Clarke, CEO at UTS Child Care, said educators attending the conference will be exposed to exciting strategies and ideas for stimulating playfulness and innovation in young children.
“This conference promises attendees a day of focusing on important issues in the early childhood education and care sector,” Ms Clarke said.
Curriculum areas that will be covered on the day, she said, will include: science, maths, literacy, as well as a focus on leadership and resilience.
“Taking a day out to focus on the skills and knowledge of educators and leaders within the early years will invigorate and inspire all,” Ms Clarke said.
The conference will be held on Saturday, 13th August 2016 (8:00am – 4:00pm) at The University of Technology, Sydney in the Aerial UTS Function Centre located within UTS Building 10 on Level 7, 235 Jones Street, Ultimo.
There is an early bird price of $280 (inc GST) if you register and pay before July 1, after which the price is $300 (inc GST). Visit www.gowriensw.com.au
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Media Contact: For more information please contact Gowrie NSW Marketing and Communications Manager Antonia Maiolo on 02 8571 9760 or email Antonia.maiolo@gowriensw.com.au
