Whether it’s a quiet cuddle at drop-off, a big smile after making a new friend, or a moment of pride as your child says, “I did it!” - early childhood is full of big feelings.
At Papilio Early Learning, we see these everyday moments for what they truly are: powerful opportunities to support each child’s emotional development. That’s why nurturing mental health and wellbeing is woven into everything we do - from our curriculum, to our classrooms, to the caring relationships we build every day.
As we recognise World Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Day on 23 April, we’re proud to shine a light on how quality early learning supports children to grow into confident, emotionally aware individuals - ready for school, and for life.
Why Emotional Development Matters from Day One
The first five years of a child’s life shape more than just early learning - they form the very foundation of how a child sees the world, builds relationships, and learns to navigate life’s ups and downs.
According to Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child, a child’s early experiences - including their emotional experiences - literally shape the brain’s architecture. The more consistent, responsive care they receive, the stronger that foundation becomes.
Children with strong emotional foundations are more likely to:
- Build trusting relationships with peers and adults
- Regulate their emotions and cope with change
- Express themselves confidently and clearly
- Develop empathy, kindness and self-awareness
The Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) also tells us that children with higher social-emotional skills at age five are better prepared for the transition to school - socially, academically, and emotionally.
What Emotional Wellbeing Looks Like at Papilio
At Papilio, emotional development isn’t treated as a separate subject. It’s present in every smile, every routine, every guided interaction - carefully supported by our educators, centre leaders, and cooks.
Here’s how we embed wellbeing into our daily practice:
- Educators respond to each child’s unique cues and needs, helping them feel understood and secure.
- Cooks serve up nourishing meals that bring comfort, familiarity, and a sense of home.
- Centre Managers and Assistant Centre Managers lead with heart, creating a warm, inclusive culture where families feel welcome and children feel safe.
- Relationships, routines and play form the backbone of our approach - because when children feel secure, they’re free to explore, learn and grow.
Supporting Emotional Growth, Every Day
Our educators are skilled in turning everyday moments into meaningful learning. Whether it’s helping a toddler cope with separation anxiety or guiding a preschooler through a friendship wobbly, we offer gentle support and consistent care to help children feel seen, heard and valued.
We foster emotional resilience by:
- Encouraging children to name and express their emotions
- Helping them navigate social situations with confidence
- Creating calm, predictable routines that reduce anxiety
- Using play to explore empathy, problem-solving, and emotional regulation
- Celebrating effort, persistence and small wins
We also proudly offer the Positive Living Skills program, designed especially for children aged 3–5. Through age-appropriate tools like mindfulness, breathing techniques and emotional language, children learn to understand themselves and connect meaningfully with others - all while having fun.
“Big emotions are a normal part of growing up. Our job is to guide children through those moments with patience, not perfection - and help them feel seen, safe, and supported every step of the way.”
What Families Can Do at Home
Supporting your child’s mental health is a shared journey - and it doesn’t need to be complicated. Small, consistent actions go a long way.
Here are a few ways you can continue the emotional learning at home:
- Talk openly about your own emotions and encourage your child to do the same
- Read books together that explore feelings and friendships
- Keep daily routines consistent and offer comfort during transitions
- Allow downtime and quiet play to support regulation
- Connect with your child’s educators - they’re here to support you, too
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
This World Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Day, we celebrate the role that early learning plays in shaping a child’s mental health for life. At Papilio, we’re proud to be part of that journey - helping each child grow into a confident, resilient learner with a strong sense of self and belonging.