Early Childhood Education plays a vital role in a child’s development, yet many myths and misconceptions still surround it. From doubts about play-based learning to misunderstandings about structured programs, these myths can make it difficult for families to feel confident about choosing the right childcare or early learning environment. In this weeks blog, we are exploring some of the most common childcare and early childhood education misconceptions and the unpacking the truth behind them.
Myth 1: “Play isn’t real learning”
Many people think that when children play, they’re just having fun. In reality, play is a powerful learning tool. Through play, children develop critical social, emotional, and cognitive skills. Activities such as building with blocks, exploring sensory materials, or engaging in imaginative play help children learn problem-solving, communication, and cooperation, all while having fun.
Myth 2: “Children are too young to benefit from structured programs”
Some parents worry that structured learning isn’t appropriate for young children. Modern early childhood programs, however, balance gentle structure with flexibility. Teaching and learning strategies such as the Abecedarian Approach Australia (3a) introduce learning through meaningful interactions and responsive routines, giving children the building blocks for literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional skills, all in ways that feel natural and engaging for their age.
Myth 3: “‘Child-led learning’ means children do whatever they want”
Child-led learning is often misunderstood. It doesn’t mean children have no guidance. Instead, it’s about following the child’s interests while providing supportive frameworks and rich learning opportunities. Educators observe, scaffold, and introduce new ideas, helping children explore and develop skills at their own pace while maintaining clear learning goals.
Myth 4: “Early Childhood Education is just babysitting”
High-quality childcare is so much more than supervision. It’s about creating an environment where children feel safe, nurtured, and stimulated. Through intentional teaching strategies, rich play experiences, and strong relationships, Early Childhood Educators actively foster a child’s curiosity, independence, and lifelong love of learning.
Myth 5: “Children don’t need social skills yet”
Social development starts early. Interacting with peers and adults in a supportive environment helps children learn empathy, turn-taking, conflict resolution, and self-regulation. Early Education settings provide guided social experiences that children can’t easily get on their own at home.
Modern Early Childhood Education is research-backed, intentional, and designed to support every child’s growth. Approaches such as the Abecedarian Approach and play-based learning ensure children are developing academically, socially, and emotionally, all in ways that feel natural, enjoyable, and meaningful.
Across our Children First Early Education centres, we see these principles in action every day. Children serve their own snacks and lunches, help tidy up educational resources, and even prepare their beds for rest time, fostering independence, confidence, and responsibility all while learning through play.
If you’ve ever wondered about the value of Early Education, we invite you to explore our classrooms and see firsthand how children learn, grow, and thrive in a nurturing environment.
Discover how Early Childhood Education could be a great fit for your family by booking a tour of your nearest Children First Early Education centre:
Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with each of our Children First centres:
- Children First Berserker
- Children First Fairfield
- Children First Cranbrook
- Children First Gaythorne
- Children First Underwood
- Children First Walkervale
- Children First Mernda
- Children First Mitcham
- Children First Evanston Park
- Children First Salisbury Downs
- Children First Angle Vale
- Children First Ingle Farm
- Children First Lightsview
- Children First Lindisfarne
- Children First South Hobart
Children First Gympie and Children First Keperra are opening soon. Follow them on Facebook to receive regular updates on their progress.
