Hi, I’m Helen and I commenced with Whitsunday Shire Family Day Care in February 2015. I hold my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and provide care from my family farm at Strathdickie, offering children a unique, hands-on learning environment connected to nature and community.

Children in my care are actively involved in farm life. Each day, we feed and observe the sheep, helping children develop responsibility, empathy and an understanding of where food and animals come from. On special occasions, lambs visit the day care area, giving children the opportunity to bottle-feed and gently pat them — experiences that build confidence, kindness and a strong connection to the natural world.

I strongly value community engagement and school readiness. Our program includes regular excursions to the local library for story time, school playgroups that support children to feel confident in larger group settings and visits to the water park during warmer weather to encourage physical development and social interaction. We also enjoy trips to local parks, giving children varied learning experiences beyond the home.

I am a very hands-on educator and love learning and playing alongside the children — whether that means joining in on the slip-and-slide, heading down the playground slide, or getting involved in everyday adventures. My goal is to create a warm, engaging environment where children feel safe, confident and excited to learn as they grow.