Stories grounded in learning frameworks
The Aware Bear series – when viewed through the lens of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and My Time, Our Place (MTOP) frameworks – offers children a rich tapestry of learning experiences that foster understanding and growth in key areas.
The books are also grounded in the core principles and practices of both frameworks, which include Belonging, Being and Becoming. Let’s explore how.
Strong sense of self
The books introduce diverse characters – each with unique backgrounds and perspectives. This exposure encourages children to embrace their own identities and appreciate the richness of human diversity. It also encourages children to develop positive relationships with others, promoting care, empathy and respect in their interactions. This focus on social and emotional development aligns with both EYLF Learning Outcome 1 and MTOP Learning Outcome 1.
Community connections
By exposing children to diverse cultural traditions and practices, the books foster respect and understanding for different ways of being. This aligns with EYLF Learning Outcome 2 and MTOP Learning Outcome 2. Both outcomes emphasise connecting with and contributing to the world by developing a sense of belonging to communities and responding to diversity with respect.
Social and emotional wellbeing
The Aware Bear series aligns with Outcome 3 of both the EYLF and MTOP frameworks by promoting social and emotional wellbeing and encouraging healthy habits and physical activity. The books explore themes of emotional regulation, resilience and positive relationships, fostering a strong sense of wellbeing in children.
Inquisitive minds
The stories foster children’s curiosity and exploration, encouraging them to ask questions, investigate, and learn new things. This aligns with EYLF Learning Outcome 4 and MTOP Learning Outcome 4, which emphasise developing dispositions for learning such as curiosity, cooperation and imagination, as well as acquiring skills like problem-solving and inquiry.
Environmental awareness
The books demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental awareness. They focus on responsibility and sustainability, introducing concepts like recycling, reducing waste, and conserving energy. These themes resonate with EYLF Learning Outcomes 2 & 3 and MTOP Learning Outcomes 2 & 3.
Social awareness
The Aware Bear series promotes social awareness by introducing children to diverse cultural traditions and practices, fostering respect and understanding for diverse ways of being. The series also promotes social inclusion and acceptance of differences, encouraging children to embrace diversity and celebrate multiculturalism. This aligns with EYLF Learning Outcomes 1 & 2 and MTOP Learning Outcomes 1 & 2.
Open-mindedness
The stories promote open-mindedness by encouraging acceptance and understanding of different cultures, perspectives, and ways of being. The books expose children to diverse cultural traditions and encourage open-mindedness about mental health and emotional wellbeing, promoting empathy and understanding. This aligns with EYLF Learning Outcomes 1 & 2 and MTOP Learning Outcomes 1 & 2.
The power of conversation starters
The inclusion of discussion starters at the end of each book further enhances children’s understanding by:
- Encouraging reflection: The questions prompt children to reflect on the story’s themes and connect them to their own lives.
- Promoting dialogue: The questions facilitate meaningful conversations between children and adults, fostering deeper understanding and critical thinking.
- Building communication skills: Engaging in discussions helps children develop their communication and articulation skills.
- Exploring different perspectives: The questions encourage children to consider different viewpoints and develop empathy.
- Becoming active and involved learners: The discussions encourage children to be active participants in their learning, building their confidence and motivation.
