A Transformation Through Movement and Learning

Early Childhood Educators are frequently challenged to support young children with developmental immaturities. These immaturities can manifest in various ways, such as poor concentration, limited physical ability, speech and language delays, or underdeveloped sensory-motor skills.

Seeking high-quality professional development, early childhood teacher Marion Collison, from Goodstart Early Learning – Bowen, completed the Learning Connections Early Years Program training with two colleagues.

The Early Years program is a neurodevelopmental movement program that addresses underlying factors that can interfere with a child’s development.

Marion was amazed by the depth of evidence-based strategies she could immediately apply in her classroom.

“The information about children’s development from birth onwards and how it relates to learning was easy to understand. Seeing the case studies and the results was truly inspiring. I just found it incredibly beneficial, and now I rave about it to everyone. It’s probably the best professional development I’ve done in my 30+ years in this profession—something that will benefit all children!”

Returning to her kindergarten, Marion was eager to implement what she had learned. She discussed the Early Years Program and its potential benefits with her Centre Director, and together they incorporated the simple set of movement activities into their nursery and kindergarten programs.

A Remarkable Transformation!

The impact of the program on one child in particular stood out to Marion—a little boy who had been struggling significantly.

Marion recalled ….

“This little boy was bright and had great gross motor skills but needed core strengthening. He had difficulty focusing, a very limited attention span, and was easily distracted. He would not participate in group time, preferring to immerse himself in imaginative play alone. His drawings were just scribbles with no recognizable form”

Determined to help him, Marion integrated strategic movement exercises into the daily routine.

“I implemented the ‘cowboy slap’ every morning and egg rolls in group times. We did animal movements as transitions. We used the creeping mat and brought the balance beams into the classroom. We made use of the big wooden teepee in our outdoor playground by doing handstands and walking our feet up the wood to see how far we could go. We got the kids practising balancing skills and developing their vestibular system which helps with focus, muscle tone, auditory and visual processing and then reading and learning!”

The results were astonishing.

“After just two weeks, his drawings transformed—he began creating detailed, dimensional pictures! A week later, he started sitting on the carpet and engaging in group time. Within three weeks, his ability to absorb knowledge really flourished!”

Phenomenal Growth!

His progress continued with a group literacy project. After reading a book about community, the children were asked, ‘If you were the Boss of Bowen, what would you change?’

“This little boy drew a detailed picture of the local water park, illustrating his proposed improvements. He then used boxes and bottles to build a three-dimensional model of the park. He proudly explained each element, demonstrating an incredible leap in confidence, creativity, and communication. The very next day, he repeated the process with a skate park. His growth was phenomenal!”

Inspired by his journey, Marion shared his story with her leadership team.

“I showed them how this child had gone from being disengaged and struggling to draw a simple picture to constructing a 3D model and articulating his ideas with clarity. Now, he confidently leads the class. He takes attendance, marks who is present or absent, and even explains why it’s important – ‘It’s to make sure everyone is here and safe.’…  It’s incredible!”

Embracing the Early Years Program!

Marion’s Centre Director was so impressed that Goodstart Bowen is now collaborating with Learning Connections to plan a full-centre training.

Soon, all staff will be trained in the delivery of the Early Years Program, ensuring every child benefits from these transformative strategies.

This case study is a powerful testament to the profound impact that the Learning Connections’ Early Years Program can have on a child’s development, turning struggle into success and isolation into leadership.

Congratulations Marion Collison and Goodstart Early Learning – Bowen

Congratulations to Marion and Goodstart Early Learning Bowen for this transformative application of the Early Years Program.  This story is a testament to the power of movement and play based learning within early childhood development and education.

Want to get involved?

For more information about the Early Years Program give Dianne Boyd a no-obligation call on 0414 264 758 to discuss your needs.

Dianne Boyd

M.  0414 264 758

E.  dianne@learningconnections.com.au

W.  learningconnections.com.au