I stumbled across this recent article on News.com.au: “Huge Impact on Aussie Kids finally revealed” - and it really struck a chord.
Carla Filipakis
Founder of Business Mums Society | YouTube Educator at Ms Carla's Learning Adventures | Empowering Women & Families
It echoed what so many of us in early childhood have been feeling for years: children are still navigating the emotional and social aftershocks of COVID-19 lockdowns - and they need more than curriculum to thrive. They need connection. They need understanding. And they need play.
As someone deeply embedded in the early learning sector, this isn’t just a professional insight - it’s also personal.
📌 During the lockdowns, I shared my own experience as a small business owner and early childhood educator in this ABC article, reflecting on the uncertainty of reopening, supporting families remotely, and trying to hold on to purpose during a time of disconnection.
That season shaped everything I do today.
What I Do Now
As the founder of Decorati, I’ve committed my work to rebuilding childhood through joyful, inclusive, and emotionally supportive programs across Sydney.
At PHIVE Parramatta, I facilitate weekly Parent & Baby and Preschool Pioneers public classes in partnership with Parramatta Council. These sessions are about more than play - they’re about reconnecting children with others, helping them regulate emotions, build confidence, and grow through sensory and creative experiences.
I also facilitate early learning incursions and workshops across:
Early Childhood Education Centres
Primary Schools and OSHC programs
Community and council-run events
NDIS-funded sessions for children with additional needs
Wherever educational children’s activities are needed - I go!
https://www.decorati.com.au/
And through my YouTube channel, Ms. Carla’s Learning Adventures, I bring learning to families at home. From storytime and sing-alongs to gentle learning videos, I help parents turn everyday moments into learning experiences that support language, creativity, and emotional wellbeing - even if they’re short on time, energy, or resources.
Why It Matters
The article’s message is clear: we can’t ignore the social and emotional toll the pandemic has had on our children. But we can choose how we respond.
Let’s stop talking about “catching up,” and start talking about slowing down. Let’s meet children where they are and offer spaces that are kind, patient, and filled with play.
The work we do now - in classrooms, in communities, in lounge rooms with sing-alongs - is helping to rebuild not just skills, but children’s sense of safety, confidence, and connection.
We all have a role in helping them flourish.
Carla Filipakis
Early Childhood Advocate | Founder of Decorati | Creator of Ms. Carla’s Learning Adventures Empowering children through play, connection, and community
📖 Read the article that inspired this post: Huge Impact on Aussie Kids Finally Revealed – News.com.au 🗞️ My lockdown experience featured by ABC: NSW Businesses Cautious About Reopening After Months in Lockdown – ABC News
