Animal Fun is an evidence-based program developed by psychologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists from Curtin University in Perth and backed by randomised controlled trial research with results published in peer reviewed journals.

The program enhances the physical and mental well-being of children aged 3 to 6. Using a playful and imaginative approach, Animal Fun not only improves motor skills but also supports children’s social and emotional development. As their physical abilities grow, children often benefit from increased self-esteem, greater confidence, and reduced problematic behaviours such as inattention and hyperactivity.

The social-emotional component of Animal Fun teaches self-regulation strategies, helps children understand and recognize different emotions through facial expressions and body language, and encourages the use of laughter to relieve stress, boost endorphins, and promote a positive, growth-oriented mindset.

Following successful research outcomes, Animal Fun has been widely implemented throughout Western Australia, and in recent years, its use has spread across Queensland and Victorian kindergartens.

For more information visit http://animalfun.com.au/preschool-boost/

Expected Outcomes from this program:

For children:

• Improved gross and fine motor skills, enhanced self-esteem and social/emotional wellbeing.
• Improved attentiveness.

For Early Childhood Educators/Teachers:

• Improved understanding of the importance of motor development in the early years and how motor skills have a profound impact on social skills, mental health and wellbeing.
• Confidence in implementing Animal Fun through the everyday routines of the classroom/centre.

The program is delivered by Teachers/Educators after receiving one of the training options. The recommendation is to aim for 15 minutes of gross motor activities and 15 minutes of fine motor/social emotional activities at least 4 days of the week for 1 school term. This dosage resulted in the significant improvements we found with our Randomised Controlled trial research.

Most centres continue with the program for a full year and the Scope and Sequence book gives program planning ideas in a developmental sequence – aligned to EYLF Curriculum for the full year.

Training Options:

• e-learning course:$50 p/p.  Self-Paced, online. 16 short videos. Access for 12 months.
• Online Workshop using Microsoft Teams: $590.91 for 1-10 participants ($59.09 per person if more than 10) 1.5 hours on a date/time to be confirmed.
• Face to Face Workshop: $654.55 for 1-10 participants (65.45 per person if more than 10) 1.5 hours at the centre on a date/time to be confirmed.

Fun and interactive for staff.

Complete Pack of Animal Fun Resources $363.64 (sufficient to run the program in 1 room).

Training Options Range from $50 - 65.45 per person with minimum fee of $590-91/$654.55 for the Online or Face to Face sessions.

No travel charge if within 3 hours drive of Adelaide CBD. Additional travel expenses for regional/remote by negotiation to include airfare, accommodation, hire car etc.