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Introduction and Importance of Humanities & Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) in early childhood education promote creativity as they assist children in discovering people, cultures, environments, and histories. By inquiry learning, children explore their environment, raise questions, and make connections between the past and present (Gilbert & Hoepper, 2016). Creative activities like role play, storytelling, and map-making allow children to communicate ideas and comprehend different viewpoints. Community walks or cultural celebrations foster curiosity and empathy while problem-solving and critical thinking are developed. The EYLF complements HASS as it allows children to form a sense of identity, belonging, and global consciousness (AGDE, 2022). Creative integration of HASS equips children to be reflective, creative, and socially responsible individuals.
Theories and Perspectives
Children show mathematical creativity when they are invited to think divergently, consider a range of solutions, and use reasoning in playful situations. Piaget's cognitive theory describes children constructing mathematical knowledge through active manipulation of objects to facilitate creative problem-solving (Piaget, 1952). Vygotsky's sociocultural theory describes social interaction and the role of the teacher, where discussion and collaborative problem-solving stimulate mathematical creativity (Vygotsky, 1978). Montessori's approach emphasizes manipulative material through which children can explore mathematical concepts in an innovative and independent manner (Montessori, 1967). Skemp's relational understanding highlights that meaningful connections, rather than practice and drill, give rise to creative thought (Skemp, 1976). Both these perspectives demonstrate that math's, when introduced as inquiry, fosters creativity, confidence, and critical thinking.
Resources, Materials, and Digital Technologies
To interest children in Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS), early childhood educators can use real cultural artefacts, traditional musical instruments, world maps, multicultural children's books, and art materials (Edwards, 2017). Digital technologies, including interactive globe applications, virtual tours of museums, and YouTube cultural dance lessons, can expand children's horizons (ACARA, 2022). Tactile resources like fabrics, clay, and natural materials enable exploration of environments and traditions. Teachers can also provide children with digital cameras to capture cultural learning experiences. These kinds of resources encourage inquiry, respect, and empathy for diversity, and they reflect the Early Years Learning Framework (AGDE, 2022) since they support identity, belonging, and intercultural understanding.
Seed Pod Shaker
Didgeridoo
Coconut shell maracas
Tambourine
Paint and brushes
colorful paper
Learning Experiences:
0–2 Years
Sensory Basket – Cultural Textures
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2. Music & Movement – Islander Drumming
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2. Traditional Costume Dress-Up
3-5 Years
Story Map – Community Roles
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2. Indigenous Musical Play with Clapsticks
6–8 Years
Virtual Museum Tour – Indigenous Art
video-output-D409262A-5A20-49FA-92ED-6B1D6DD1DD04-1.MOVIMG_6835.movReflection and Evaluation
Designing these Humanities and Social Sciences activities taught me that through creative, hands-on learning, children can discover culture, diversity, and identity. Islander dance with instruments and dot painting activities encourage respect, belonging, and curiosity. I understood that it is critical to use authentic materials and to explain their cultural significance. These activities are linked to EYLF outcomes, and they encourage empathy, creativity, and a sense of community.
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