Helen Little is a Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood and Course Director for the Master of Teaching (Birth to five years) in the School of Education.  She has been at Macquarie University Since 2001. Prior to this she was an early childhood teacher with experience teaching in preschools and primary schools in Sydney. 

Research:

Helen’s primary area of research examines individual, social and environmental factors influencing children’s engagement in risk-taking behaviour in outdoor play. Her current focus relates to how the physical features of the outdoor environment and teaching practices impact on children's experiences of risk-taking in play. 

Teaching:
Helen lectures and teaches outdoor learning, and child development at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. She is interested in early childhood teacher education including outdoor pedagogy as part of the student experience in practicums. Helen is interested in all aspects of children's development however she has a particular focus on physical and motor development. She currently convenes:

• ECHE1180 (Academic Co-ordinator & lecturer) Infancy and Early Development
• ECHE3100 (Academic Co-ordinator, lecturer & tutor) Play-based Curriculum: Discovery and Creativity in Outdoor Environments
• ECHE6020 (Academic Coordinator, lecturer & tutor) Early Childhood Development

Community:
Helen is currently a Play Australia NSW branch committee member. Member of Early Childhood Australia and the International Play Association. Helen also holds qualifications in PARS Playwork Practice.

She is also the School of Education representative on the Mia Mia Child and Family Study Centre Advisory Board.