As we look ahead to 2026, parents across the Sunshine Coast are beginning to consider their early childhood education options. With growing research supporting the benefits of nature-based learning and play-based approaches, there’s never been a better time to choose an early learning centre that truly honours how children develop and thrive.
At Mount Coolum Early Learning, we’re excited to announce that our 2026 enrolment is now open, and we’re ready to welcome new families into our “Wild & Free” community.
The Science Behind Nature-Based Early Learning
According to the Australian Government Department of Education, quality early childhood education programs that follow the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) show significant long-term benefits for children’s development. Studies demonstrate that children who attend high-quality early learning programs show:
- Enhanced school readiness and academic performance
- Stronger social and emotional regulation skills
- Better physical health and motor development
- Increased environmental awareness and stewardship
The Nature Play Queensland organisation emphasises that outdoor, nature-based play is crucial for healthy child development, supporting everything from creativity and problem-solving to physical fitness and mental wellbeing.
What Makes Mount Coolum Early Learning Different in 2026
Our “Wild & Free” Philosophy in Action
Our approach isn’t just about being outdoors – it’s about creating meaningful connections between children, nature, and learning. Research from the International Journal of Early Childhood Environmental Education shows that children who engage with nature-based learning programs develop stronger environmental stewardship values that last into adulthood.
At MCEL, your child will experience:
🌊 Our Unique Water Park Experience. While other centres worry about hot summer days, our children thrive with our on-site water park. This isn’t just about cooling off – water play supports sensory development, motor skills, and scientific understanding as children explore concepts like flow, volume, and cause-and-effect.
🌱 Farm-to-Table Learning Through Our Gardens Our vegetable and herb gardens, bush tucker garden, and worm farm provide hands-on sustainability education. The Australian Association for Environmental Education emphasises that early exposure to environmental concepts creates lifelong conservation behaviours.
🏞️ Adventure Playground Adventures Our scramble net courses, mud kitchen, sensory paths, and natural climbing areas support what researchers call “risky play” – the kind of challenging, physical exploration that builds confidence, resilience, and decision-making skills.
Educational Excellence That Prepares for School Success
While we believe in child-led, play-based learning, we’re also committed to ensuring your child is fully prepared for their school journey. Our programs align with both the Early Years Learning Framework and the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines.
What this means for your child:
- Strong literacy and numeracy foundations through meaningful play experiences
- Advanced social-emotional intelligence developed through collaborative nature projects
- Critical thinking skills honed through real-world problem-solving
- Physical confidence and coordination through diverse movement opportunities
- Environmental awareness that supports scientific thinking
Holistic Wellness Approach
Understanding that children’s well-being encompasses more than academic learning, we integrate wellness practices throughout our day:
- Yoga and meditation sessions help children develop emotional regulation and mindfulness skills
- Fresh, healthy nutrition, including produce from our own gardens
- Essential oils and calming environments support sensory needs
- Flexible, child-responsive programming honours individual developmental timelines
Why 2026 Enrolment Matters Now
Limited Spaces, Unlimited Opportunities
We intentionally maintain small group sizes to ensure every child receives individual attention and genuine care. This means our 2026 spaces are limited, and we expect enrollment to fill quickly as families recognise the value of our unique approach.
Perfect Timing for School Transition
Children enroling for 2026 will have optimal time to develop the independence, confidence, and skills needed for a smooth transition to formal schooling. Our track record shows that MCEL children consistently demonstrate strong school readiness across all developmental domains.
Growing Recognition of Nature-Based Benefits
As more research emerges supporting nature-based early learning, programs like ours are becoming increasingly sought after. Families who secure spots now are positioning their children for educational approaches that align with cutting-edge understanding of child development.
What Current Families Say
The most powerful testament to our program comes from the families who trust us with their children daily. Parents consistently report:
- Children who come home happy, confident, and eager to share their discoveries
- Smooth transitions to school with teachers noting strong preparation
- Deep environmental awareness and sustainable practices at home
- Strong friendships and social skills
- Genuine excitement about learning and exploration
Environmental Stewardship for the Future
By 2026, today’s early learners will be the environmental stewards of tomorrow. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals emphasise that environmental education must start early to create meaningful change.
At MCEL, environmental stewardship isn’t a curriculum add-on – it’s woven into everything we do:
- Composting and worm farming teach waste reduction
- Garden-to-table cooking demonstrates food security concepts
- Native plant learning builds a connection to local ecosystems
- Water conservation practices develop resource awareness
- Wildlife observation fosters respect for biodiversity
Our Community Difference
Choosing Mount Coolum Early Learning means joining a community of families who share values around:
- Childhood is a time for wonder and exploration
- Education that honours individual development
- Environmental responsibility and sustainability
- Authentic relationships between educators and families
- Real play is the foundation for all learning
Ready to Secure Your Child’s Place in 2026?
We invite you to experience the Mount Coolum Early Learning difference firsthand. During your tour, you’ll see:
- Children engaged in meaningful, joyful learning experiences
- Educators who truly know and care for each child
- Environments designed to inspire curiosity and confidence
- The tangible results of our “Wild & Free” approach
Our Details:
- Address: 30 Suncoast Beach Drive, Mount Coolum 4573
- Hours: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM, Monday – Friday
- Contact: [Your phone number and email]
- Website: mtcoolumearlylearning.com.au
Take the Next Step
2026 enrollment is open now, but spaces are filling quickly. Don’t wait to secure your child’s place in an early learning experience that will set the foundation for their lifelong love of learning, connection to nature, and confidence in themselves.
Book your family tour today and see why Mount Coolum Early Learning is where children thrive, explore, and grow into confident, capable, caring individuals.
Ready to learn more? Contact us today to schedule your personalised tour and discover why families choose Mount Coolum Early Learning for their children’s most important early years.
Sources and Further Reading
- Australian Government Department of Education – Early Years Learning Framework
- Nature Play Queensland – Benefits of Nature Play
- International Journal of Early Childhood Environmental Education
- Australian Association for Environmental Education
- Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines
- UN Sustainable Development Goals – Quality Education
- Australian Early Development Census – School Readiness Research
