What Is Inclusive Practice in Childcare?

In childcare centres, early learning Educators apply inclusive practices to ensure each child has an equal opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of their cultural background or individual ability.  

For parents, understanding the role of inclusive practice in childcare can help guide key decisions about care and learning, as well as how to choose a childcare centre that caters to the developmental needs of your child.  

What Does Inclusive Practice Involve?  

Inclusive practice is an approach to learning and development (not only in childcare) that considers the different needs of learners. It starts with the understanding that every child has unique needs and abilities that affect their individual capacity for learning.   

Unlike traditional teaching practices that use rigid rubrics to assess learning and development progress in children, inclusive practice ensures that young learners do not get left behind or rushed through the learning process.  

By tailoring teaching methods and activities to each child’s learning needs, children are more likely to feel motivated to participate actively, leading to more effective learning.  

The Inclusive Practice Framework in Australia 

In April 2025, the Australian Government Department of Education engaged the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) to develop an Inclusive Practice Framework to guide childcare services and early learning Educators in incorporating inclusive practices.  

This Inclusive Practice Framework will be developed and trialled at care services over 12 months, with the final report delivered to the Australian Government in June 2026.  

Why Does Inclusive Practice Matter?  

Inclusive practice is a part of the Early Years Learning Framework, which highlights the importance of every child’s right to participate in early childhood settings regardless of their background, ability, or identity.  

For Children  

Inclusive practices provide children with a fair opportunity to learn and grow at their own pace. When activities and programs are designed to cater to their preferred learning methods, children become more motivated to participate and experience fewer barriers in the learning process.  

During the early years, children are beginning to learn about their own abilities and the world around them. Inclusive practice allows children to develop a healthy understanding of their own identity, and build social skills through interactions with their peers. 

Inclusive practice also works to protect children against discrimination and unfair treatment.  

For Families 

Inclusive practice also extends to families of children attending childcare - parents can form stronger connections with Educators and childcare centres to better understand how to support their child’s development at home.   

Families can also ensure that the specific cultural beliefs and values are given equal importance in early learning - Educators often encourage children to explore and share their family backgrounds, forming it as part of their identity.  

For Educators 

Inclusive practices also help Educators to create learning environments that are flexible and responsive to each child’s needs and abilities. This creates more opportunities for personalised learning, and allows Educators to be more effective in ensuring consistent progress in each child.   

Educators who are familiar with inclusive practices are also better equipped to communicate openly with families regarding care and learning needs.  

Examples of Inclusive Practices in Childcare 

Adapting Learning Formats  

Educators apply inclusive practice by adapting curriculum to each child’s preferred method of learning. Some children learn better through visual mediums and can benefit from programs that incorporate pictures and illustrations. Educators plan a diverse range of programs to ensure that each type of learning medium is represented in the curriculum. 

Positive Reinforcement 

Educators focus on recognising and encouraging positive behaviours to reinforce learning. As children play and interact with their peers, Educators closely monitor their behaviour to identify opportunities to offer praise and rewards.   

Positive reinforcement helps children to develop healthy perspectives surrounding social interactions and culture. 

Cultural Exploration  

Inclusive practice emphasises the importance of each child’s cultural background as part of their identity and place in their community. Educators choose books, media, and other learning content that explores different cultures to develop a sense of understanding and respect within young learners. This sets the foundation for an inclusive perspective of the world and prevents any potential bias of prejudice.    

Mary MacKillop Childcare North Queensland has four early learning centres across Townsville and North Queensland - each of our early learning centres has a strong focus on inclusivity and welcomes children from all backgrounds and cultures.   

If you would like to find out more about how inclusive practice is implemented in our early learning activities and programs, get in touch with our team. We can answer any question you have over the phone or arrange an in-person visit at one of our childcare centres.