Tui Early Learners Young Investigators

In our programme, children are mostly free to choose what they will work on and the routines they are involved in are respectful and gentle, taking the child's emotions and well being into account. We are supportive of transition times, when children are arriving or leaving, as some find this quite hard from time to time.

We offer snacks and lunchtime for extended periods so that children can choose when they feel ready to eat.  Toileting is a matter of reminders rather than a 'must do now'.  Sleep time happens if a parent requests it and the child is willing (although we do make having a sleep/rest a very peaceful experience).

We encourage children to respect the rights and needs of other people through role modelling between teachers and with children.  We have our own special way of speaking and acting positively with children to help them manage their emotions and act in ways that do not hurt themselves or others.

We are very fortunate to have a large outside environment that provides space for children to be alone or work with others.  Changes happen frequently in this area in accordance with children's interests and the teachers' enthusiasms but a feature always are our gardens.  We believe that all of us have an entitlement to work and play in a pleasant environment.

At Tui  we value children’s interests, strengths and abilities. We recognize young children’s need to develop their abilities to become independent and their desire to begin to guide their own learning experiences and outcomes. To achieve this we include a variety of free play and planned events within the routine of the Tui day.

Young children are seeking some independence and control over aspects of their lives. They are beginning to realise and practice their skills, interests and abilities. A learning journey may be initiated through the interests of the child, a peer or group, a teacher, or by a resource or question. Independence in the eating, sleeping and toileting routines are also ways in which children are provided with an appropriate opportunity for decision making.