OUR PHILOSOPHY
A Natural & Nurturing
Learning Environment
We believe in learning through play and encourage resourcefulness and lateral thinking by providing open ended resources and activities using natural materials.
WHY CHOOSE US
A Philosophy Rooted
in Nature
At The Children’s Garden, we believe children thrive when they feel safe, valued, and connected to the natural world. Our philosophy draws from Te Whāriki and the concept of Kaitiakitanga to create a learning environment that nurtures creativity, curiosity, and confidence.
We provide open-ended resources and activities using natural materials, encouraging resourcefulness and lateral thinking through play-based exploration.
OUR APPROACH
Nurturing Through Nature
The Children’s Garden aim to provide an environment which feels homely and safe, encourages good self-care, healthy eating practices, physical activity and care and empathy for all other beings.
We believe in learning through play and encourage resourcefulness and lateral thinking by providing open ended resources and activities using natural materials and objects wherever possible.
LEARNING WITH US
How We Teach
Here at The Children’s Garden, we aim to provide a program where the foundation of learning aspects of a child’s development are nurtured through experiences and opportunities which will awaken their senses, stimulating their imagination and creativity, fostering an enquiring mind and a love of learning.
Our program includes learning based on New Zealand’s Early Childhood Curriculum, Te Whariki, where learning is visible, supports children’s interests and is documented in a variety of ways.
We include regular excursions into nature as part of our program planning and weekly routines, to support our belief that time spent in natural environments is an essential experience in early childhood.
WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL
What Makes Our Centre Special?
We seek to instill a sense of value and self-worth in all our children, as well as an acceptance and understanding of the many cultures which make up our society.
We believe children learn best where there are clear boundaries and where they feel loved, cared for, valued and safe.
THE IMPORTANCE OF RELATIONSHIPS
Building Strong Connections
We acknowledge the importance of a close family and community spirit where whanau are involved in decision making and have an opportunity to share their skills in the program.
Our teachers will be positive role models, guiding and supporting learning through the use of home and garden-based activities. For example, sweeping, gardening, cooking, building cubbies, looking after animals, singing, listening to stories and helping to prepare meals.
We are committed to bi-cultural practice, actively engaging in respectful working relationships with Maori learners and their whanau.
Overall, our goal is to deliver responsible, respectful, caring, life-long learners ready to embrace and make the most of their school years.
OUR CORE VALUES
Natural Learning
Learning through play with natural materials and open-ended resources.
Te Whāriki
Our curriculum is based on New Zealand's Early Childhood Curriculum framework.
Whānau Spirit
A close family and community spirit where whānau are involved in decision making.
Bi-Cultural Practice
Actively engaging in respectful working relationships with Māori learners and their whānau.
WHAT PARENTS SAY
The Children’s Garden has been the most wonderful environment for our little ones. The emphasis on natural play and learning through nature has been transformative for our family. We couldn’t ask for a more nurturing and thoughtful approach to early childhood education.
Emma-Jane Jones
Parent
Ready to Join The Children's Garden?
Give your child the gift of a natural, nurturing learning environment. Enrol today and watch them thrive at The Children’s Garden. Limited spaces available — get in touch now!