Hi, my name is Dimple Nelson and I am the educator behind Kindy Haven Family Day Care, based in Proserpine. I am an Early Childhood Teacher (ECT) with over 30 years’ experience in the early childhood sector and a lifelong passion for supporting children’s learning, wellbeing and development.

Originally from Malaysia, I have lived in Australia for the past 17 years. After relocating from Melbourne to the Whitsundays in 2018, I can confidently say this beautiful region has become my second home. I hold a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education from the University of Southern Queensland (2004) and a Master of Teaching (Early Years) from the University of Melbourne (2011). I also share my home with my two much-loved dogs, Cardy and Dom, who are very much part of our family environment.

My teaching philosophy is strongly grounded in the belief that play is essential to children’s learning. Through play, children explore, question, problem-solve and make sense of the world around them. At Kindy Haven, I intentionally create learning experiences that are child-led, play-based and thoughtfully guided, supporting each child’s individual strengths, interests and developmental needs.

I believe children learn best when they feel respected, valued and included. Every child has a deep desire to belong and to feel that they matter. My role as an educator is to support children in building positive relationships, developing emotional resilience, and finding strategies to navigate challenges during their important early years.

Families, culture and identity are central to my practice. I strongly value children’s backgrounds, beliefs, languages and experiences, and I intentionally incorporate these into the learning environment. By honouring who children are and where they come from, learning becomes more meaningful, inclusive and joyful.

Transitioning from a kindergarten setting into Family Day Care marks an exciting new chapter in my professional journey. Kindy Haven offers the same high-quality, intentional teaching within a more personal, home-based environment that fosters connection, curiosity and a strong sense of belonging. My aim is to provide a safe, nurturing and engaging space where children feel confident to make choices, develop life skills, build positive self-esteem and grow into capable, independent individuals.

At Kindy Haven Family Day Care, children’s voices are heard, families are valued, and learning is guided by warmth, respect and a genuine love of early childhood education