Down the Lane Family Day Care

After some inspiring conversations with other Family Day Care educators, I’m trialling a new way of planning and documenting our curriculum at Down the Lane FDC.

Today is all about preparing for next term, bringing together new ideas, children’s interests, family input, and exciting learning opportunities. I’m so excited to see it all come together and share it with our families. ❤️

Of course, no planning day is complete without a soundtrack! Today I’m working away with all the tunes from the 2000s playing in the background. 🎶

Now I have to know… what’s your favourite era of music? Are you a 70s, 80s, 90s, 2000s, or current hits kind of person? 🎵✨

One of the things I love most about Family Day Care is the connections we build—not only with the children and families, but with other educators too. ❤️

Calls like this are so special. Even though these amazing ladies live all the way in Queensland, we still make time to connect, share ideas, support one another, and celebrate our wins (and challenges!).

Family Day Care can sometimes feel like a solo journey, but moments like these remind me that we are part of a much bigger community. I am so grateful for the friendships, encouragement, and inspiration that come from connecting with fellow educators across Australia. 💕

Together, we learn, grow, and help make a difference in the lives of children every day.

When a picture turns out Pinterest worthy… ❤️

Our ocean-themed sensory tray came together beautifully today! Inspired by our recent World Ocean Day celebrations and the children’s growing interest in ocean wildlife, this invitation to play is ready for little hands to explore.

From the bright blue ocean and sea creatures to the shells, coral and treasures hidden beneath the sea, every element encourages curiosity, imagination and discovery.

I can’t wait to see where the children’s learning takes us next as we continue exploring the wonders of our oceans and the amazing wildlife that calls them home. 🐋🦈🪸🐚

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Our exploration of sea wildlife began with World Ocean Day, where the children enjoyed learning about our oceans through a variety of hands-on experiences. This then led to our popular penguin sensory play, inspired by the penguins we have been following at Perth Zoo.

The children’s interest in ocean animals continues to grow, so over the coming weeks we will be extending their learning as we explore more sea wildlife, discover different underwater creatures, and learn about the important role oceans play in our world.

Each year it is a highlight to read through the Excellence in Family Day Care Awards nominations and 2026 is no different.
Thank you to everyone who has placed a nomination - please visit https://www.familydaycare.com.au/promoting-you/awards to nominate.

❤️ Home Safe & Back Where My Heart Is ❤️

After a wonderful little getaway, I’m home safe and sound and feeling completely recharged. While I may have brought home a rather impressive sunburn 😅☀️, I also came back with a full cup and a grateful heart.

And can I just say… I think the children missed me! ❤️

Walking back through the door this morning to excited smiles, big hugs, endless stories and hearing all about everyone’s adventures was the best feeling. Seeing the children so excited to see each other again reminded me just how special the little community we have created at Down the Lane really is.

Being away was lovely, but there truly is no place I’d rather be than spending my days with these darling children, watching them learn, grow, laugh and explore the world around them.

While I was away, I completely forgot that nominations have opened for the 2026 Excellence in Family Day Care Awards! I was incredibly honoured to be named the 2025 Regional Educator of the Year winner for the Rockingham/Kwinana region, and I’m still so grateful for the support, encouragement and nominations that made that possible. Nominations for the 2026 awards are now open until 2 July 2026.

If Down the Lane Family Day Care has made a positive impact on your family, and you would like to support me, I would be so grateful if you would consider placing a nomination ❤️

https://www.familydaycare.com.au/promoting-you/awards

Thank you for trusting me with your precious little people. It is a privilege I never take for granted. ❤️