Kool Beginnings Curriculum – My Connections

The understandings and connections children make through family, culture, and community practices, beliefs, and values are the foundation of how they see the world. These experiences provide children with a ‘toolbox’ of symbols, language, values, beliefs, rituals, and objects they will use throughout life.

Our Kool Beginnings Curriculum (KBC) ‘My Connections’ block helps children explore their own and others’ toolboxes, looking at big ideas like diversity, equity, culture, and inclusion through their connections with people, places, and things.

By understanding and appreciating the diverse elements that shape their world, we aim to foster a sense of connection, curiosity, agency and responsibility. As children play, learn and discover, they start to develop understandings of themselves and others. ‘My Connections’ emphasises the importance of acknowledging, respecting, and valuing the unique contributions of every person. It goes beyond surface level cultural exploration, extending to all aspects of diversity, including historical impacts, traditional biases, abilities, family structures, individual strengths and differentiated needs.

‘My Connections’ encourages opportunities for children to engage in conversations, activities, and experiences that promote a sense of connection and belonging for everyone. By doing so, we strive to instil in children the values of empathy, respect, and equity, fostering a positive and inclusive environment that prepares them for a future as kind, socially conscious and culturally responsive, global citizens.

‘My Connections’ extends beyond cultural awareness, encouraging a deep exploration of historical contexts, acknowledging traditional custodianship, and fostering an understanding of the enduring legacies that shape First Nations perspectives. In fostering these principles, we envision ‘My Connections’ as a space where anti-bias education, cultural responsiveness, and a commitment to reconciliation are interwoven seamlessly, laying the foundation for a generation of children who carry these values into their future interactions, relationships, and contributions to society.