EYLF Learning Outcomes Explained

The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) is Australia’s national curriculum for children from birth to 5 years.

Since 2012, the EYLF has been used in all childcare and early childhood education as a tool to support children’s learning and development. The five learning areas of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) are identity, connection to the world, wellbeing, learning confidence, and communication. 

Educators use the EYLF’s five learning outcomes to measure how children are progressing, and  to shape the facility’s future curriculum or programs. This guide will help parents and Educators understand how the learning outcomes guide the early education of children. 

The 5 EYLF Learning Outcomes

The five learning outcomes of the EYLF are:

1. Children have a strong sense of identity
2. Children connect and contribute to their world
3. Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
4. Children are confident and involved learners
5. Children are effective communicators 

Each learning outcome covers a key developmental area in children that forms the foundation for future learning as they make the transition to kindergarten and, eventually, the school system. When combined, the learning outcomes work together to ensure that children develop holistically in the critical early years.

1. Children have a strong sense of identity 

Children are supported through learning to develop a strong sense of identity and self-worth. Identity is at the core of every individual and affects how children learn, communicate, and interact with the world around them.

When children are in an environment where they feel safe and secure, it enables them to explore freely and develop independence. As children build up an understanding of who they are through learning and play, they also learn how to relate to others with care, empathy, and respect. 

Educators work to achieve this learning outcome by creating an environment where children feel supported, engaging personally with each child to provide opportunities for self-expression. Parents can contribute toward this learning outcome by reaffirming children through love and affection at home.

2. Children connect and contribute to their world

Early learning programs are designed to help children connect with the world and develop a deeper understanding of the group and communities they belong to. Children are presented with opportunities to explore their environment and express their thoughts and feelings in a way that respects others around them.

Educators facilitate outdoor and group activities to help children connect naturally with the world and their peers, providing guidance when needed. This learning outcome contributes to a child’s awareness of diversity and fairness, and helps to develop a healthy respect for other people and the environment.

3. Children have a strong sense of wellbeing

Wellbeing refers to a child’s emotional, mental, and physical health. Children who develop a strong sense of wellbeing are aware of how they are feeling and have a basic understanding of how to ensure their personal safety.

Educators teach children how to recognise their needs (rest, hunger, or comfort) and take responsibility for their own physical health and safety. Children also learn how to socialise with peers, which builds trust and confidence for future relationships. The goal of this learning outcome is to ensure that children have a foundation for regulating and expressing their physical and emotional needs.

4. Children are confident and involved learners 

Early learning is a child’s first step toward their educational journey. Educators help to foster a love for learning in children at a young age by encouraging curiosity and exploration through play-based learning. Play-based learning is a big part of the EYLF:  it combines key learning concepts such as ideation, reflection, and creativity with play activities that children naturally engage in.

Through play-based learning, children develop confidence in their ability to understand new concepts and actively participate in learning. This love for learning stays with children as they transition to regular schooling, setting them up for success.

5. Children are effective communicators 

With guidance from Educators, children learn to communicate both verbally and non-verbally in response to their needs, learning activities, and interactions with others. Communication and language skills are continually taught and practised during early learning sessions, whether through reading, storytelling, or singing activities.

This learning outcome encompasses more than just speaking; it includes all aspects of communication such as understanding patterns and cues, forming and expressing ideas, and listening to others. Children who can communicate effectively are not only able to express themselves to others but can also receive and comprehend external information. 

The EYLF Learning Outcomes in Practice

The EYLF is a general framework for early learning centres and Educators, meaning that each childcare centre tailors its curriculum to meet the five learning outcomes for children. At Mary Mackillop Childcare North Queensland, we plan and structure our learning curriculum around the EYLF learning outcomes to provide high-quality education and care for children. 

If you would like to find out more about how we implement the EYLF learning outcomes into our curriculum, get in touch with our early learning centres in Townsville - our Educators will be glad to walk you through our programs.