The Impact of Environment on Early Childhood Education

This report explores the impact of the environment on early childhood education, specifically focusing on the role of the environment as a 'third teacher'. The research question examines the impact of the environment on children's mental and physical development. The report utilizes a qualitative research paradigm, including content analysis of secondary research data. The report examines the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and the National Quality Standard (NQS) of Australia. The study highlights the importance of a safe and secure environment and its impact on early childhood education. The report also explores the Reggio Emilia approach and Bush kinder education theory and their application in the Australian context, emphasizing the significance of integrating the physical environment to promote learning and well-being of children.

Running head: THIRD TEACHER
Third teacher
Name of the Student
Name of the University
Author note

1THIRD TEACHER
Environment is setting for physical activity of children for mental and physical
development of a child. The research question is based on understanding the impact of the
environment. For this purpose, a qualitative research paradigm is chosen and methodology
includes content analysis of secondary research data. Environment is considered a third teacher
for a child because it is the place of learning just like a teacher and child interacting. Therefore,
the aim of the research is to evaluate impact of environment on early childhood education. The
topic is selected as per the “Early Years Learning Framework” (EYLF) and “National Quality
Standard” (NQS) of Australia.
Physical environment plays an important role in the early childhood education curriculum
as it also has the potential to promote learning. It is important to integrate the physical
environment, as children need to know about nature’s contribution in our lives. Reggio Emilia
education approach and Bush kinder education theory are employed by ECE in Australia help
children to utilize the open spaces and physical environment that recognizes their skills and inner
capabilities. Victorian curriculum introduced early childhood policy to support safe and secured
indoor-outdoor play for children. For this, indoor-outdoor environment should be designed in a
way that ensure a safe and secured environment and maximize learning.