The latest Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) has sounded a national alarm, revealing an increase in children being more developmentally vulnerable as they head into their first year of school. Only 52.9% of children are on track in the five key development areas needed to thrive in kindergarten, according to the 2024 AEDC results released this month.
As these results have declined since the previous census in 2021, these findings reflect a clear trend: Australia’s youngest learners are falling behind at the most critical stage of life.
Stephanie Lord-Darby from GymbaROO, a national leader in early childhood development, is reminding parents to take action and ensure their children enter school with the physical, emotional and cognitive foundations they need to thrive.
“An emphasis on Early Years Education continues to rise as educators understand the non-negotiable value of input it holds in building necessary foundations for life. It is not the early education years we should be skipping,” said Lord-Darby.
Governments spend large amounts on remedial programs for children who are falling behind their peers. What Lord-Darby believes is most important is movement-based activities to get children neurologically and developmentally ready for the rigours of school.
The AEDC data reassures the vital role of programs like GymbaROO and gymnastics in supporting children’s learning prior to kindergarten. More than ever, children need quality developmental experiences in their early years, particularly activities that actively engage the body and brain through movement, rhythm and play.
“By navigating young children’s natural curiosity through fun, engaging and evidence-based activities, we are already giving them a head start in successfully navigating their future,” Lord-Darby said.
Backed by neuroscience and loved by families, GymbaROO is a fun, sensory-motor based program that uses movement to build the brain foundations essential for children’s learning and development. GymbaROO provides classes both in-centre and online, in an effort to make their developmental support more accessible to families.
For more than 40 years, GymbaROO has supported thousands of Australian families with research-based classes that build physical coordination, social confidence, emotional regulation and skills to prepare children for school learning.
Stephanie Lord-Darby
Master of Research (Education)
Bachelor of Education (Primary)
Diploma of Children’s Services
With a rich background in early years and primary school curriculum, Stephanie Lord-Darby is an education research enthusiast with a focus on values education and inclusive education. She stays informed about the latest developments in curriculum and educational research, ensuring her teaching practices reflect innovative, evidence-based strategies tailored to the unique learning needs of each child.
Stephanie encourages shared initiative through collaboration and reflection, fostering vibrant, progressive, and diverse educational programs. She enjoys being involved in educational projects that inspire curiosity and creativity. Stephanie is committed to shaping the future of education by empowering young learners and supporting their growth in a fun, playful, innovative, engaging, and diverse way.