Childcare options in Eltham

Our Philosophy:

• At Eltham Kindergarten we believe that working in partnership with whānau is an integral part of the child’s learning journey.
• By nurturing and supporting the aspirations and goals of our learners and our community we are making a difference in the lives of the people we engage with.
• At Eltham Kindergarten we are driven by the interests and passions of learners, whether children or adults. As teachers in this Kindergarten we are influenced by local community, national and international events.
• At Eltham Kindergarten we value and support for all learners: Wonderment and Awe, Thinking and Questioning, Social Competence, Finding Humour, Respect, Creativity, Persistence, Curiosity, Confidence/Risk taking.
• Teaching and practicing the principles of conservation and sustainability are paramount in our programme.

What makes our Kindergarten special?

• A commitment to ongoing learning to ensure that Te Reo and Tikanga is visible and reflected in our programme.
• Strong relationships with whānau and links with our local community- including schools, community garden, library, food bank.
• Recognition and support for developing children’s Emotional and Social Competence as vital to children’s learning- developing independence skills and the ability to work collaboratively with others.
• Respect for self, others and the environment interwoven through the programme.
• Hands on learning, where children are actively involved in decision making, are involved in their learning and contribute to the learning of others.

Te Kōhanga Reo

The kōhanga reo movement is a unique initiative based on total immersion in Māori language and values with the aim of passing on Māori culture to future generations.

Kōhanga reo emphasise the revitalisation of the culture through te reo Māori and are dependent on the active participation of the whole whānau. The kaupapa of kōhanga reo aims to strengthen whānau capabilities in cultural, social, economic, spiritual and political matters. Education, health and wellbeing are inherent within all aspects of the kaupapa. The prime focus is the whānau – its collective development, growth, accountability and wellbeing set within a Māori cultural context.

Kōhanga reo do not regard tamariki in isolation, but as important members of the whānau. The kōhanga reo philosophy is that tamariki will benefit when whānau successfully operate according to the kaupapa. Tamariki are an integral part of whānau development.

The following key goals are the foundation of te kōhanga reo kaupapa established in 1982:

• total immersion in te reo Māori me ōna tikanga in daily operations
• whānau decision-making, management and responsibility
• accountability
• health and wellbeing of mokopuna and whānau.

The key goals of te kōhanga reo assure that there will be:

• security in te reo Māori
• a supportive, caring environment for mokopuna
• whānau (collective) sharing of responsibilities, knowledge and expertise
• greater respect and appreciation of each other.

Nature’s Wonder was opened in November 2016 in the heart of Eltham. A beautiful purpose built childcare centre licensed for 12 Under twos and 32 Over twos from birth to 6 years old.

Owners Colin and Mel Ogle have placed a great emphasis on relationships, nature and beauty which is reflected in the environment, the learning programmes and teaching team.

The team here is committed to growing respectful and loving relationships with our children in a natural, calm, nurturing, beautiful environment.

One of the special treasures here at Nature’s Wonder is our forest. A place where we can go and explore nature in its raw simplicity, where children are supported to take the lead in their learning, and imaginative play is encouraged.

Our Philosophy

Vision

To be the centre of choice in South Taranaki.

Mission

We are a provider of quality early childhood care and education in Taranaki, providing a warm, loving nurturing environment through respectful relationships, beautiful environments and engagement with nature.

Philosophy

“No Significant Learning Can Occur Without a Significant Relationship”

At Nature’s Wonder we are committed to growing respectful and loving relationships and acknowledge children are valued members of society with rights. The partnership we build with all children, family and whanau are the most important part of our work.

“Let Nature be the Third Teacher”

All our children will have experiences in nature allowing time for uninterrupted play and to explore the beauty of nature.

When we feel safe, we can take risks, ask questions, make mistakes, learn to trust, share our feelings and grow. When the benefit outweighs the risk, then do it!

“Surrounded in Beauty, the Soul Grows”

At Nature’s Wonder we believe that for the soul to grow it requires thought provoking, inviting spaces and order. By providing authentic resources, materials and tools we give children experiences that are meaningful.

The environment is ever-evolving in response to learning and active exploration.

Adults and children take responsibility for the environment and our place in it.