Innovative Resource

Program details:

Program description

Innovative Resource – part of Anglicare Victoria – has developed a range of colourful resources for supporting children in the early years. These resources have grown out of the strengths-based approach and reflect 5 practice principles:

• respectful relationships and responsive engagement
• equity and diversity
• partnerships with families and professionals
• high expectations for every child
• reflective practice.

The card sets, stickers, books and picture books are used to enrich conversations about 'the important stuff in life' - feelings, hopes, strengths, relationships, values, stories and goals. Special bundles of resources have been put together in relation to managing feelings, trauma-informed care, supporting parents and building relationships.

Online and face-to-face training is also available to support effective use of the resources. Kindergarten services can contact the provider to organise training sessions, which can be conducted at the service or at the provider's training site. The provider can also help to coordinate regional training to allow a group of kindergarten services to 'pool' funds and access training.

Visit the training section of the provider website for upcoming workshops.

Detailed cost

• Resources range from $24.95 to $99 per item. Bundles of resources are priced from $174.50 to $348.00. Free postage. (Visit the provider's website for detailed cost information as items vary).
• Group training costs range from $770 for a two-hour workshop to $2750 for full day (plus travel and accommodation where required for face-to-face workshops).
• Public training events are offered throughout the year at cost ranging from $55 - $330 per registration.
• One-to-one sessions with our training specialist are available where you can discuss how the resources can be used in your work. These one-hour sessions are delivered online at a cost $125.

Implementation considerations

• Target population: early childhood educators, children and families.
• Program adaptability: the provider can tailor packages to suit a service's budget and specific needs, including suitable resources and workshops. Face-to-face training sessions are offered throughout the year, while online learning is also available. Some resources are available in languages other than English.
• Access considerations: Innovative Resources will travel to deliver workshops. Note that travel and accommodation costs may apply. Workshops attract a flat fee (see detailed costs above), so there is no requirement for a minimum number of participants.
• Factors to consider: face-to-face and online training is available for educators wanting support to use the resources. These resources should be implemented in line with the VEYLDF.

VEYLDF alignment

Item uses these practice principles

• Reflective practice
• Partnerships with families
• High expectations for every child
• Respectful relationships and responsive engagement
• Equity and diversity
• Assessment for learning and development
• Integrated teaching and learning approaches
• Partnerships with professionals

Item responds to these sub-outcomes

• Children become strong in their social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing
• Children take increasing responsibility for their own health and physical wellbeing