At Waves Early Learning, the safety, well-being, and holistic development of the children in our care have always been at the heart of every decision we make. This year, we implemented a significant change in how we document and share children’s learning journeys: we have moved away from third-party digital platforms and apps.
Instead, our learning program is now displayed within the room, guided by the 8 Ways of Learning framework. Children’s photos are shared through digital frames within the service, allowing them to revisit their own learning and celebrate experiences with peers. All observations, including images, are now securely kept offline and are shared with families quarterly via email.
This shift was driven by our commitment to child safety, protecting children’s digital presence, and fostering meaningful connections between educators, children, and families. Importantly, Waves pre-empted these changes well before they became mandatory, positioning ourselves as a leader in the early childhood sector.
Why This Change Was Needed
Across Australia, the early childhood sector has been increasingly focused on the implications of digital documentation for children. The risks associated with storing information and images on third-party platforms include:
- The creation of digital footprints for children who are too young to provide informed consent.
- Cybersecurity vulnerabilities that could compromise private information.
- Increased exposure of children’s personal information, which runs counter to the Child Safe Standards, emphasises proactive strategies to keep children safe in every environment.
While many services are now beginning to respond to these issues as regulations tighten, Waves took action early, recognising that protecting children is not a matter of compliance alone—it is an ethical responsibility. By moving away from third-party platforms, we are safeguarding children’s information while maintaining transparency and connection with families.
Grounding Our Practice in Research and Theory
Our decision is also informed by early childhood education theory, which reinforces the importance of relationships, engagement, and meaningful learning environments:
- Lev Vygotsky emphasised that children learn best through rich, social interactions. By keeping educators off devices, we create more opportunities for authentic, responsive interactions that support children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development.
- Loris Malaguzzi, founder of the Reggio Emilia approach, highlighted the idea that children have “a hundred languages” through which they express themselves. By displaying learning programs and photos within the room, children can revisit, reflect, and actively engage with their own learning in ways that are tangible and meaningful.
- Urie Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory reminds us that children’s environments profoundly shape their development. By removing distractions from digital devices and focusing on child-centred spaces, we create environments that are safe, engaging, and supportive of holistic growth.
How These Changes Benefit Children
The impact of these changes on children is profound:
1. Enhanced Safety and Privacy – Children’s images and personal information are now kept securely offline, giving families peace of mind that their child’s digital footprint is protected.
2. Increased Engagement – Educators can focus more fully on children, nurturing learning, curiosity, and social-emotional development without the distraction of devices.
3. Learning Made Visible – Programs displayed in the room and digital photo frames empower children to see themselves as capable learners, revisit experiences, and share their learning stories with peers.
4. Stronger Relationships – By prioritising connection over documentation on devices, educators can build more meaningful relationships with children, supporting a sense of belonging, trust, and safety.
Waves Early Learning as a Sector Leader
Waves are proud to lead the sector in this approach. While many services are now adjusting to comply with new child safety standards, Waves anticipated these changes and implemented them proactively. Our leadership demonstrates a commitment to putting children first, not just following regulations but setting best practice standards for others to follow.
This proactive approach reflects our core values:
- A commitment to child-centred learning.
- Dedication to innovative, safe, and meaningful practices.
- The belief that leadership in early childhood education means acting before change is required, ensuring children are protected and nurtured at all times.
Looking Forward
At Waves Early Learning, our approach to documentation is now more than a compliance measure—it is a reflection of our philosophy, our values, and our dedication to children. By keeping children’s data secure, empowering educators to engage fully, and making learning visible and meaningful, we are setting a standard for the sector.
We are proud to be ahead of the curve, demonstrating how early childhood services can balance digital innovation with safety, privacy, and genuine connection. As we continue to grow and refine our practices, families can trust that their children’s learning, safety, and well-being will always come first at Waves Early Learning.