EYLF Outcome 1: Children Have a Strong Sense of Identity (Explained with Examples)
EYLF Outcome 1 focuses on helping children develop a strong sense of identity — feeling safe, secure, confident, and valued. When children know who they are and where they belong, they are more likely to explore, learn, and build positive relationships.
This guide explains what EYLF Outcome 1 means in practice, what it looks like in childcare, and how both educators and parents can support it in everyday situations.
What Does EYLF Outcome 1 Mean?
Outcome 1 is about children developing a secure sense of who they are. This includes their relationships, confidence, independence, and ability to interact with others.
In simple terms, children are developing identity when they:
- Feel safe, secure, and supported
- Develop independence and confidence
- Build positive relationships with others
- Understand their place within family, culture, and community
These elements form the foundation for all future learning and wellbeing.
EYLF Outcome 1 Sub-Outcomes (LO1.1 – LO1.4)
Outcome 1 is broken into four key areas:
- LO1.1: Children feel safe, secure, and supported
- LO1.2: Children develop autonomy, resilience, and agency
- LO1.3: Children develop a strong sense of self
- LO1.4: Children learn to interact with care, empathy, and respect
These are not checklists, but indicators that help educators understand how children are developing over time.
What Does EYLF Outcome 1 Look Like in Childcare?
In a childcare setting, Outcome 1 is visible in everyday interactions, routines, and relationships.
- A child confidently separates from their parent and joins play
- A child expresses their needs, preferences, or emotions
- Children form friendships and show empathy toward others
- A child takes initiative in choosing activities
- Children show pride in their achievements
These behaviours indicate that children feel secure enough to explore their environment and engage with others.
Want to see how educators document this?
Examples of EYLF Outcome 1 in Practice
Here are practical examples of how Outcome 1 may be supported and observed.
Example 1: Building Confidence Through Choice
A child chooses which activity they would like to engage in and persists even when it becomes challenging. This supports independence and confidence (LO1.2).
Example 2: Developing a Sense of Belonging
A child sees photos of their family displayed in the room and talks about them with peers. This reinforces identity and belonging (LO1.3).
Example 3: Building Relationships
A child comforts another child who is upset, demonstrating empathy and social awareness (LO1.4).
These types of moments are often captured in learning documentation.
Download templates for documenting learning →
How Educators Support EYLF Outcome 1
- Build consistent, responsive relationships with children
- Provide opportunities for independence and decision-making
- Recognise and celebrate each child’s strengths
- Create inclusive environments that reflect children’s identities
- Support emotional expression and regulation
These strategies help children feel valued and capable, which strengthens their identity.
How Parents Can Support Outcome 1 at Home
- Encourage independence through simple choices
- Talk about feelings and validate emotions
- Celebrate effort, not just outcomes
- Share stories about family, culture, and identity
- Provide consistent routines and emotional support
Small, everyday interactions play a significant role in building a child’s confidence and sense of belonging.
Questions Parents Can Ask Educators
- How is my child building confidence in the classroom?
- How do you support my child’s sense of belonging?
- What relationships has my child formed?
- How is my child learning independence?
These questions can help strengthen communication between families and educators.
Frequently Asked Questions About EYLF Outcome 1
What is EYLF Outcome 1?
It focuses on children developing a strong sense of identity, including confidence, independence, and belonging.
Why is identity important in early childhood?
A strong sense of identity supports emotional wellbeing, relationships, and learning.
How do educators measure Outcome 1?
Through observation, documentation, and reflection — often using learning stories and developmental notes.
