Our curriculum is a blend of play-based and child-led (or emergent) learning approaches. Backed by extensive research in early learning and brain development, the curriculum focuses on building both academic and personal skills throughout the day in an environment that is nurturing and inspiring.
The principles of the Ministry of Education recommended Te Whariki Early Learning Framework is women into our curriculum; not just meting the minimum expected standards, but far exceeding it. Download and view our ERO report.
2-3 years (toddlers)
At this age, further development of the children’s social, emotional and cognitive skills is encouraged and planned for.
The routine offers a balance of structured and free exploration which includes a focus on fine motor, construction, creative arts, music and movement and language and literature. Children are encouraged to find their own space in the centre to explore, discover, create and imagine. The environment and programme are vibrant and flexible and responsive to the interests and abilities of each child. Toilet training is strongly encouraged, and implemented in partnership with the whanau.
3-5 years (pre-schoolers)
As your child officially heads out of toddler years into childhood, we tailor our programme to continue building on their independence, self-esteem and co-operation skills, while helping them to socialise and play with others. Enjoyable activities like arts and crafts, pre-reading and imaginative play will also take centre stage to help boost language, motor, creative and cognitive skills.
Your child will also gain an appreciation for numeracy, literacy and problem-solving to further prepare them for the next big step – school.
School readiness programme
Getting ready for school is an important milestone in our little ones’ life and it requires a strong foundation to help children start this amazing journey of learning. School readiness is not all about academics. We recognise that children up to seven years old learn best through play, and that more important than skill development is their development of social and emotional wellbeing, which is needed to be an active and positive learner.
The school readiness programme at All About Children starts from the time a child enters through the door in the morning and wishes everyone “Good morning”. Our holistic programme supports the development of independence and confidence. Interests are promoted and children are provided assistance and resources required to become active learners.
We work in partnership with families and local schools to ensure we provide all support needed for your child to develop to their full potential, and transition easily to school.
Extracurricular activities
In order to add variety and flavour to the curriculum, you’ll often see us run special activities such as dance classes, play gym and similar experiences within the centre. The activities are chosen in consultation with parents and children’s interest at the time.
We invite specialists to train the children on the chosen activities. They typically run for a few weeks and may have an additional charge.
The excitement never really ends at our centre, where themed days and cultural celebrations fill up gaps left by excursions, trips and centre visits by people of interest. We have pyjama parties; special colour days and many more. Learning is weaved into every aspect of centre life – but it is always fun, never boring.
