May 2026 provides meaningful opportunities for early childhood learning through themes of respect, inclusion, well-being, and community connection. Key events, such as Mother’s Day, International Day of Families, World Bee Day, and National Sorry Day, support children in developing empathy, appreciation for important people in their lives, and an understanding of diversity and care for the environment. National Reconciliation Week, which begins on 27 May, presents an important opportunity to introduce children to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, fostering cultural awareness, respect, and a strong sense of belonging. Through inclusive, play-based programming, educators can support children aged 0–6 to build positive relationships, communication skills, and social responsibility in alignment with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and the National Quality Framework (NQF).
4–10 May: Compost Awareness Week
5–11 May: National Family Day Care Week
11–18 May: Road Safety Week
12–18 May: Food Allergy Awareness Week
13–19 May: National Families Week
18–26 May: World Orienteering Week
19–23 May: Under 8’s Week
27 May–3 Jun: National Reconciliation Week
🌿 May 2026: Respect, Inclusion, and Reconciliation in Our Community
🌸 May 2026 – Weekly Programming (EYLF + NQS Detailed Alignment)
Week 1: 4–10 May
Focus: Mother’s Day – Belonging, Relationships, Care
Activities
Activity 1 – “Special People in My Life”
- 0–2 years: Look at family photos and name important people with educators.
- 3–6 years: Draw or create cards for a special person (mum, caregiver, family member).
Activity 2 – “Kindness & Care Play”
- 0–2 years: Practice gentle interactions (hugging dolls, caring routines).
- 3–6 years: Role-play caring for others (home corner, helping play).
EYLF Outcomes
- Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity
- Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world
National Quality Standard (NQS)
- QA1 – Educational Program and Practice
- 1.1.1 Approved learning framework
- 1.2.1 Intentional teaching
- QA5 – Relationships with Children
- 5.1.1 Positive educator–child interactions
- QA6 – Collaborative Partnerships with Families and Communities
- 6.1.2 Parent views are respected
Week 2: 11–17 May
Focus: Families & Inclusion – Belonging and Diversity
Activities
Activity 1 – “My Family, My Story”
- 0–2 years: Explore family photos and simple conversations about home.
- 3–6 years: Share family drawings or stories in group time.
Activity 2 – “Helping Hands”
- 0–2 years: Pack away toys and assist educators.
- 3–6 years: Create a “helping chart” and practice teamwork tasks.
EYLF Outcomes
- Outcome 1: Identity
- Outcome 3: Wellbeing
National Quality Standard (NQS)
- QA1 – Educational Program and Practice
- 1.2.2 Responsive teaching and scaffolding
- QA5 – Relationships with Children
- 5.2.1 Collaborative learning
- QA6 – Collaborative Partnerships
- 6.2.1 Transitions
Week 3: 18–24 May
Focus: Sustainability – World Bee Day & Caring for the Environment
Activities
Activity 1 – “Busy Bees Exploration”
- 0–2 years: Explore yellow/black sensory materials and buzzing sounds.
- 3–6 years: Learn about bees and create bee-themed art or models.
Activity 2 – “Caring for Nature”
- 0–2 years: Water plants and explore outdoor environments.
- 3–6 years: Plant flowers and talk about how bees help the environment.
EYLF Outcomes
- Outcome 2: Connected with and contribute to their world
- Outcome 4: Confident and involved learners
National Quality Standard (NQS)
- QA1 – Educational Program and Practice
- 1.1.2 Child-centred practice
- QA3 – Physical Environment
- 3.2.1 Inclusive environment
- 3.2.3 Environmentally responsible
Week 4: 25–31 May
Focus: Respect, Culture, and Reconciliation
(National Sorry Day & National Reconciliation Week)
Activities
Activity 1 – “Belonging & Respect”
- 0–2 years: Listen to calming music and explore natural materials.
- 3–6 years: Create group artwork about belonging and respect for others.
Activity 2 – “Learning About Country”
- 0–2 years: Explore nature through touch (leaves, sand, water).
- 3–6 years: Talk about caring for Country and learn simple Aboriginal symbols through art (respectful, age-appropriate).
EYLF Outcomes
- Outcome 2: Connected with and contribute to their world
- Outcome 5: Communication
National Quality Standard (NQS)
- QA1 – Educational Program and Practice
- 1.3.2 Ongoing learning and reflective practice
- QA3 – Physical Environment
- 3.1.2 Upkeep of premises, furniture and equipment
- QA6 – Collaborative Partnerships with Families and Communities
- 6.1.1 Engagement with the service
Download the Programming Table here