This first episode will examine what inclusion in the early childhood context means. We will consider some of the most common barriers preventing inclusion in early childhood education and care.

Throughout this series, we have covered a number of different topics.  In this episode Adam and Jo will discuss how diversity, closing the gap, trauma-informed practice, amplifying the voice of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, this year's NRW theme Be Brave. Make Change can be contextualized and used in everyday practice.

This episode will look at what it means to Be Brave.  Make Change in the context of early childhood education and care settings.  Everyone is on their own journey of reconciliation, this year's National Reconciliation Week theme provides us with the perfect opportunity to move forward in our reconciliation journey by reflecting on our own biases, addressing racism, and tackle the unfinished business of reconciliation.

This episode will look at the significant role early childhood professionals play in uplifting cultural leaders.  Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children play a significant and critical role in the future of reconciliation in Australia. Educators play a vital role in providing them with opportunities to be a part of a community of learners that supports and fosters their ability to share their perspectives of their own culture and identity through curriculum, co-design, advocacy, and play.

This episode will unpack the ongoing impact trauma has had and continues to have on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, families and children.  Over the past few years, there has been a greater awareness regarding understanding trauma-informed practice, and how it can be used to support the development and complex behaviours in infants and young children.  Adam and Jo will discuss the importance of understanding the connection between trauma-informed practice, creating culturally safe environments and social and emotional wellbeing in early childhood settings.

Today, we will closely look at what Closing the Gap is and its relevance within the early childhood education and care context.  Outcomes three and four of the Closing the Gap initiative identify the importance of the early years and the significance of quality early childhood education and care in reaching Closing the Gap targets.  To implement these effectively, we need to recognise the myths and misconceptions associated with Closing the Gap.  In this episode, Adam and Jo aim to dispel some of these myths by discussing how educators can use the initiative to ensure each child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.