Weekly Programming Template for Australian Childcare Centres

Why Good Programming Matters

Effective weekly programming is the backbone of quality early childhood education. It ensures:

• All EYLF outcomes are covered
• Activities meet children's interests and needs
• Educators are prepared and confident
• Regulatory requirements are met

Essential Elements of a Weekly Program

1. Basic Information Section

• Week dates
• Room/age group
• Number of children
• Educators on duty

2. Daily Routine Overview

• Arrival and greeting
• Morning tea
• Group times
• Indoor/outdoor play
• Rest time
• Afternoon activities

3. Planned Experiences

For each activity, include:

• Activity name and description
• Materials needed
• EYLF outcomes addressed
• Set-up instructions
• Extension ideas

4. EYLF Outcome Tracker

A visual checklist showing which outcomes are covered each day.

5. Reflection Space

Areas to note:

• What worked well
• What to change
• Individual children's responses
• Follow-up ideas

Sample Weekly Program Structure

Monday Theme: Exploring Nature

Tuesday Theme: Building & Construction

Tips for Effective Programming

Be Flexible

Your program is a guide, not a strict schedule. Follow children's interests and be ready to adapt.

Balance Activity Types

Include a mix of:

• Active and quiet activities
• Indoor and outdoor experiences
• Individual and group opportunities
• Child-led and educator-led moments

Cover All Outcomes

Use an EYLF tracker to ensure you're addressing all five outcomes throughout the week.

Include Children's Interests

Base your planning on observations of what children are curious about.

Plan for Transitions

Don't forget the in-between moments - songs, finger plays, and movement activities help transitions run smoothly.

Common Programming Challenges

"I don't have time to plan properly"

• Set aside dedicated planning time each week
• Use templates to speed up the process
• Consider digital planning tools

"Children don't engage with planned activities"

• Involve children in planning
• Base activities on observed interests
• Be willing to abandon plans that aren't working

"I struggle to cover all EYLF outcomes"

• Use a tracking system
• Remember that one activity can address multiple outcomes
• Review and adjust weekly

Digital Programming Solutions

Modern educators are turning to digital tools to streamline programming. Benefits include:

• Automatic EYLF outcome tracking
• Easy modification and sharing
• Professional export options
• Time savings

Try ECT Planner

ECT Planner creates comprehensive weekly programs in minutes. Simply enter your observations about children's interests, and our AI generates EYLF-aligned activities complete with materials lists and educator instructions.

Create Your Free Program →