EYLF Learning Outcome 3: Children Have A Strong Sense Of Wellbeing
23 October 2025
The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) is Australia’s national curriculum for children from birth until they are 5 years old. There are five learning outcomes of the EYLF which help Educators to shape lessons and measure how children are progressing. The third EYLF Learning Outcome highlights a child’s emotional and physical wellbeing.
The EYLF plays an important role in your child’s development and places focus on a strong sense of wellbeing to maximise your child’s learning potential. In childcare settings where the EYLF is used, children are encouraged to recognise their needs and express them in a confident way.
What is EYLF Learning Outcome 3?
The third outcome of the Early Years Learning Framework is “Children Have a Strong Sense of Wellbeing”. This refers to a child’s emotional, mental and physical health and highlights how those who develop a strong sense of wellbeing can recognise their feelings and have a basic understanding of how to keep themselves safe.
The EYLF Outcome 3 instructs Educators to teach children how to recognise their physical and emotional needs and express them in healthy ways. Children will also learn how to socialise with their peers so they can build trust and confidence for future relationships.
As Early Childhood Educators, the staff at Mary MacKillop Childcare North Queensland (MMCNQ) provide a loving, safe and nurturing environment which allows children to develop at their own pace. We guide children as they approach challenging situations and support them as they learn how to manage their emotions.
The Three Indicators of EYLF Learning Outcome 3
Strong social, emotional and mental wellbeing
The first indicator of EYLF Learning Outcome 3 is when a child can recognise their feelings and show an ability to manage their emotions. During this stage, children will begin to identify trusted people and communicate their feelings (e.g. happiness, sadness, frustration) in a confident and healthy way. Children will work closely with their peers and be able to recognise a range of emotions in others. They will also be able to celebrate their own achievements as well as the successes of their peers.
As Educators, we provide a supportive and affectionate environment as children learn how to recognise and manage their emotions. Through discussions, we allow children to express their needs freely, encourage them to strengthen their decision-making and assist as they negotiate their rights.
Strong in physical learning
In this stage, children will recognise their physical needs (e.g. hunger, rest, comfort) and become increasingly aware of how to keep themselves and others safe. Children will demonstrate spatial awareness, develop movement patterns and be able to participate in creative activities such as dance and drama. Increased physical capabilities will allow children to explore their surroundings and discover new challenges and risks.
Through physical play-based activities, Educators encourage children’s development of motor and cognitive skills and provide a wide range of tools to support children’s learning. We will highlight the importance of health and safety issues and reinforce good hygiene practices.
Developing strategies to support their own wellbeing
Children will demonstrate increased independence and awareness of safety, healthy lifestyles, good nutrition, and hygiene. Children will be able to communicate their needs and build strategies to take care of themselves and keep themselves safe. Children will have an increased understanding of boundaries and learn how to provide consent in everyday play.
As Educators, we guide children as they learn how to approach challenging situations and support them when they communicate their experiences, feelings and needs. Through discussions, we promote an awareness of health, hygiene and personal safety. We also provide a range of active and relaxing experiences so that children can make decisions for themselves regarding participation.
If you would like to find out more about how Mary MacKillop Childcare North Queensland (MMCNQ) implements the EYLF learning outcomes into our curriculum, you can contact us using the form on this page.
