Bundaberg residents doing Christmas shopping in one of the city’s major shopping centres will find more than Santa this week.

Central Queensland University Bundaberg’s Early Childhood education students are currently exhibiting work until Thursday 12 December.

Lecturer Claire Thelander said the Contemporary Child exhibition was an opportunity for students to explore their own understanding of contemporary children.

“The students believe it is important to share their insights about young children and families with the general public, particularly in order to advocate for the significance and role of the early childhood education profession in our community,” Ms Thelander said.

“They are encouraging others to consider such things as: what are children like today; who or what influences the contemporary child; how do children themselves influence others and the wider community; and what voice do children have in society?" Play, as a central component of early childhood education, and the importance of care are highlighted throughout the exhibition, with colour galore and a mix of medians for expression. The students are happy to discuss their work with the local shoppers.