I won’t apologise for keeping children at the centre of what I do. Speaking out in the early childhood sector isn’t always comfortable. When you challenge dominant narratives, question policy directions, or advocate for relational, rights-based, and play-rich practice, you often find yourself pushed to the margins or ignored. But I didn’t come into this work to stay silent. I believe in calling things what they are. In standing up for what matters, even when it’s unpopular. If that means being overlooked or dismissed by those in the sector, so be it. Because I would rather stand with children than be applauded for saying nothing. Let’s keep speaking out, even when it’s hard. Let’s centre children. Let’s protect the magic of play. Let’s refuse to dilute the message of giving children the best start in life, which for me is what truly matters. #playmatters #earlychildhoodeducation #childcentred #relationalpedagogy #educationpolicy #voicesforchildren #rightsbasedpractice #standupforplay #earlyyearsmatter #childinthenow