As a mum, I’m always thinking about the spaces my boys spend time in. From the cosy reading corner in their bedroom to the wide-open football pitch, each environment shapes how they learn, play, and grow.

In early childhood education, the learning environment is often referred to as the “third teacher”—a concept deeply embedded in Australia’s National Quality Framework (NQF). Both the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and My Time, Our Place (MTOP) highlight the importance of “welcoming, safe and inclusive indoor and outdoor learning environments” that reflect and enrich the lives of children and families.

Why Learning Environments Matter in Early Childhood

1. Creating Belonging and Security

Children thrive in spaces where they feel safe, secure, and supported.
When environments reflect children’s interests, cultures, and languages, they foster a strong sense of identity—a key focus of EYLF and MTOP Outcome 1.
Thoughtful design helps every child feel seen, valued, and at home.

2. Balancing Active and Calming Zones

Effective environments offer variety.
They include active and calming spaces, as well as time for both energetic and quiet play.
Whether it’s a lively area for games or a peaceful nook for storytelling, these zones support diverse learning styles and emotional needs.

3. Encouraging Exploration and Discovery

The best environments are vibrant, flexible, and responsive.
They invite open-ended play, spontaneity, risk-taking, and connection with nature.
Resources like Aware Bear—featuring tactile elements and engaging stories—can be integrated into these spaces to spark curiosity and discovery.

4. Connecting to Country and Community

Outdoor learning spaces are especially significant in Australia.
They offer opportunities to learn on Country and from Country, fostering appreciation for the natural world and its interdependence.
Designing environments that reflect local community and Indigenous perspectives creates intercultural spaces where all knowledge systems are respected.

5. Making Intentional Design Easy

You’re already skilled at creating engaging spaces.

Aware Bear is a plug-and-play resource that enhances your learning environments.

Its diverse stories and natural themes can enrich reading corners, inspire creative play areas, or prompt discussions about outdoor spaces.

The included teaching notes offer ideas for integrating the pack into your planned environment, aligned with EYLF and MTOP practices.

How Aware Bear Supports Inspiring Environments

Each Aware Bear pack includes:

  • A cuddly Aware Bear plush
  • 15 inclusive storybooks featuring cultural and environmental themes
  • Teaching notes aligned with EYLF and MTOP practices
  • Special day tummy patches to personalise learning spaces
  • Discussion starters to prompt exploration and reflection

These resources help educators design spaces that are welcoming, inclusive, and rich with learning opportunities—making the environment a true “third teacher”.

Ready to Transform Your Learning Environment with Aware Bear?

Explore the Aware Bear Collection for Inspiring Learning Spaces and bring intentional design to life in your early childhood setting.