Una Early Learning Centre has opened its doors in Sippy Downs on the Sunshine Coast, where a little wild does a lot of good.
With its philosophy grounded in embracing nature and holistic wellbeing, Una Early Learning burst onto the Queensland early learning scene in 2023. Its two centres in Sippy Downs on the Sunshine Coast are already buzzing with curious little minds, and a third centre is in the pipeline for 2024 in Forest Glen.
But what is the philosophy behind rewilding, and what does that look like in a childcare setting?
Rewilding is a concept that encourages people to slow down, immerse themselves in nature and understand the world around them.
“At Una, it’s the natural world that ignites our imaginations because, to care for nature we must first understand it,” says Una Early Learning Operations Manager Talisha Long.
“Whether it’s getting immersed in bush kindy, tending to the animals who call our centres home, or playing barefoot on the grass, each interaction with nature brings a bounty of physical, emotional, and cognitive benefits and grows a better future for us all.”
There’s so much to explore outside!
Child-led learning on the Sunshine Coast
Children develop critical thinking skills and cultivate the confidence to trust themselves through experiencing autonomy in a safe environment.
“We encourage children to find their own rhythm for life,” says Talisha.
“Through natural experiences, we empower them to follow where their curiosity leads them, pursue play their way, and step into their independence.”
Healthy habits instilled at an early age
Healthy habits are instilled from the moment our kids are born.
“Our bodies are our forever homes, which is why our programs are designed to inspire lifelong care and appreciation for holistic health,” says Talisha.
“We keep tummies satisfied with nourishing foods that little ones love, fueling their energy and showing them how delicious and nutritious food can be.”
Caring for our environment, and each other
Embracing diversity in early learning
Through embracing diversity, children grow up with the innate belief that they, and all people, belong.
“From encouraging children to share their interests with their peers to motivating our educators to bring their passions into their teaching rooms, ours is a place where curious minds delight in stories different to their own. It’s a place where differences are celebrated,” says Talisha.
Choose fun
Whichever form it takes, fun invites participation and helps us connect with one another. It melts away fear and bolsters confidence.
“Every day, we choose roaring laughter and a good dose of silliness!” says Talisha.
“Sometimes, we choose the fun of splish-splashing in puddles or monkeying across the playscape. Fun can mean getting messy or embracing risky play alongside those sharing your excitement.”
“Here, we know that a little wild does a lot of good. And that’s why we choose fun, always.”
A dedicated Kindergarten centre with long daycare hours
Dedicated Kindergarten centre with long daycare hours
Una has two centres on the Sunshine Coast, with a third opening in 2024. The Sippy Downs Early Learning Centre offers long day care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. The second Sippy Downs centre is a dedicated Kindergarten service with just two rooms tailored for school readiness and the kindergarten program. Both centres run long daycare hours, enabling families to enjoy the benefits of a dedicated kindergarten program with full-time care.
Una Early Learning Centre age groups
- 6 weeks to 15 months: The Nursery
- 15 months to 2 years: Toddlers
- 2 to 3 years: Junior Kindy
- 3 to 4 years: Senior Kindy
- 4 to 5 years: Kindergarten
Una Early Learning Centre Locations
Una Sippy Downs | 38 Central Drive, Sippy Downs QLD 4557 | Monday – Friday, 6:30 am – 6:30 pm
Una Kindergarten | 8 Fairfax Street, Sippy Downs QLD 4557 | Monday – Friday, 6:30 am – 6:30 pm
Una Forest Glen ( OPENING DECEMBER 2024 ) | Forest Glen QLD 4556 | Monday – Friday, 6:30 am – 6:30 pm
Contact: 07 5211 0555 | | unakids.com.au
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