The image of a teacher
It's well known that mums wear many hats: cook, nurse, teacher, homemaker, taxi driver - you name it, we do it! However, it …
Settling into childcare
The heart-wrenching sobs and the rather awkward leg cling-on need not be an ongoing part of your childcare drop-off routine. Early childhood educator Michelle Hewlett shares some strategies for settling. Whether your child is starting with a …
What preschool centre is right for you?
If you're looking at a childcare centre for your little one, you'll need to consider not only things like cost and proximity, but also philosophy. Many childcare centres are based on educational philosophies that you may, or may not, find sit with …
Choosing an early childhood provider
I owe, I owe, it's off to work I go… but who will look after baby? We outline your childcare options below so you can choose what best suits your family. Most parents use some kind of childcare in the pre-school years, whether it's one-off …
An Environment of inclusivity
On a large piece of land in Mairangi Bay’s commercial area, you’ll find a special home away from home for your child. We are proud of our bi-cultural heritage and strive to create an environment that is challenging, inclusive, supportive and …
Do you have a gifted child?
How can you tell if your little one is "gifted", talented, or average? Do we even need to label them? Dr Melanie Woodfield explains IQ testing and the consequences of its results. When we think of someone being "gifted", we tend to think of a …
Tips for a smooth transition to preschool
Toddlerhood heralds a whole new phase of learning and development. Before you know it, the door opens on early childhood education and your child heads off to preschool. Barbs Tozer, Communications Manager for Kindercare Learning Centres, shares her …
Raising bilingual children
Mum of two Catherine Tafto shares the proud moments and pitfalls of raising children to speak more than one language. “Mamma, hvor er Granny?” “Hun er i hagen.” “Granny, are you in the garden?” This exchange between my son and I was one of those …
Starting preschool or kindy
CHOOSING A PRESCHOOL OR KINDY Deciding which preschool or kindy is right for your child might be as simple as a matter of geography, or it might involve some research on your part into different philosophies and approaches, as you consider which …
Choosing home-based childcare
Dropping the kids off for a play date at a friend's house makes for an ideal childcare arrangement. Why not formalise it with a home-based childcare provider? Ellie Gwilliam discusses the benefits her family has experienced with home-based …
Au pair anyone?
Having live-in childcare seems like a brilliant solution for families requiring flexible childcare, and some extra help around the house. But what exactly is involved and what does it cost? We asked Au Pair Link to explain the basics. What is an au …
Making Sure Your Child Is Safe
Mum of one, Rebecca Williamson, offers advice on making sure your child is safe when in the care of others. The first time you leave your pride and joy in the care of someone else – someone who’s not family orafriend – is a big deal for most …
Six tips to help your child settle in at preschool
The first few days and weeks at an early childhood centre is often the hardest for both Mum and little one but the situation does improve as he or she gets to know the other children and the teachers. Preparation is important: Go for at least three …
Taking Care of Baby - Nanny? Au Pair? Daycare?
Taking care of baby Nanny, au pair, daycare or home-based? Deciding who will look after your baby is a tough call. So we asked four mums to explain why their choice of childcare works for them. In the words of a…daycare mum Lee Plummer, mum …
Daycare alternatives
The fact is, working mothers need childcare. But what are the options besides daycare centres? Here are three alternatives. In-home care If work means you can't stay home with your child, why not place him or her with another parent in their family …
The daycare dilemna
If you're returning to work after the birth of your baby, you're probably weighing up the pros and cons of putting your child into care. You may be feeling extremely ambivalent about whether daycare is the best choice for your family - and you're …
Choosing The Right Childcare
Rebecca Williamson looks at the pros and cons of childcare options to help you decide what’s right for you and your little ones. You’ve been swept up in a wonderful whirlwind of nappy changes, teething and cuddles. You’ve lost countless hours of …