Like many early childhood services, Tamborine Mountain Early Learning Centre was already passionate about movement and reducing screen time, but wanted a more structured, consistent way to embed physical activity across the entire program.

Director Rachael describes Play Active as an affordable and easy way to get started, offering valuable tools, resources, and support that make promoting physical activity simple and achievable.

"It’s a no-brainer for services wanting to enhance children’s wellbeing and active play."

Let's hear more from Rachael about her experiences and tips for other services who might like to get involved.

Can you tell us a bit about your service and your role?

I am the Director and nominated supervisor at Mount Tamborine Early Learning Centre, where I oversee operations, curriculum, and compliance. Our service is based in a unique semi-rural environment and places a strong emphasis on integrating indoor and outdoor learning, with a focus on physical activity as part of children’s daily experiences.

What motivated you to become a Play Active member?

We have always prioritised movement and physical activity and Play Active aligned strongly with our goals around improving children’s health and reducing screen time. It supported our quality improvement priorities and provided a structured way to strengthen these practices.

What has your experience of the Play Active program been like?

Play Active has been a very positive experience for our service. Having a tailored policy, along with clear language and tools, has made it easier to embed physical activity into our everyday program. The resources, such as Move It Mondays and physical activity prompts, have supported educators in planning and delivering active play experiences.

Engagement with the Play Active team has also strengthened our confidence in promoting physical activity and aligning our practices with health and wellbeing priorities. The program has helped reduce negative behaviours and supports children’s overall wellbeing through increased movement opportunities.

What was the Play Active registration and membership process like?

The process was quick and easy to set up, taking only a few minutes to become a member.

How did your team respond to the professional development?

The professional development and shared language have been valuable, helping educators begin to embed consistent approaches to physical activity into their practice.

What changes have you made since implementing the Play Active policy?

The biggest change has been embedding Play Active language and approaches into our everyday program, helping educators more intentionally plan and talk about physical activity with children.

What differences have you noticed in children’s physical activity, energetic play or wellbeing?

We have noticed a reduction in negative behaviours, with physical activity helping children regulate and engage more positively throughout the day.

Has your tailored Play Active policy including procedures made implementing physical activity and energetic play easier?

Yes, the policy and procedures make it easier by removing guesswork and clearly showing educators how to incorporate physical activity into the program.

How have children responded?

Children engage naturally in the activities and benefit from increased opportunities for movement and active play.

How have families responded?

Families respond positively, particularly valuing the focus on reducing screen time and increasing physical activity as part of their child’s daily experience.

What surprised you most about the Play Active program?

The program has provided a comprehensive suite of tools and resources that are easy to implement and align well with service goals.

What would you say to other services considering becoming a Play Active member?

Play Active is an affordable, practical, and supportive program that provides useful tools and guidance to embed physical activity into everyday practice.

Would you recommend Play Active to others? Why?

Yes, because it offers strong support, practical resources, and valuable connections with others who prioritise physical activity for young children, making it an easy and worthwhile investment.