A woman holding a child as they carefully walk on a log at Your Place Childcare in Silverdale, reflecting trust, exploration, and developmental growth in early learning.

"When we allow children to explore within the safety of our support, they learn to trust themselves and the world around them."

At Your Place Childcare, our philosophy is influenced by the principles of New Zealand’s early childhood curriculum, Te Whāriki, and practices of Dr. Emmi Pikler, Reggio Emilia, and The Virtues Project. These philosophies inform our approach to early learning and childcare, where we believe every child is competent, capable, and curious. Guided by the values of trust, respect, and Kotahitanga, we create a nurturing, home-like environment that fosters individual growth. We prioritise a safe and joyful space where children, families, and educators work together to cultivate competent, confident, and well-rounded learners.

Educational Foundations

Dr. Emmi Pikler

A little girl mixing soil and leaves in a bowl at Your Place Childcare in Silverdale, engaging in pretend play and developing creativity.

This philosophy emphasises the importance of respectful care and fostering independence in young children. Dr. Pikler’s approach encourages educators to treat children with dignity, allowing them to explore and learn at their own pace. The philosophy is rooted in the belief that children are competent in making decisions, promoting self-reliance and confidence from an early age.

Reggio Emilia

A curious little girl examining leaves, fostering exploration and learning in early childhood education, essential for early learning and childcare.

The Reggio Emilia approach focuses on child-led learning, creativity, and the concept that the environment is the “third teacher.” In this nature-based approach, children are seen as curious and active participants in their learning journey. Educators at Your Place Childcare create environments that inspire children’s natural curiosity and facilitate discovery through hands-on exploration, open-ended questions, and collaborative projects. This allows children to play and learn in ways that are meaningful and connected to the world around them.

The Virtues Project

Toddler wearing a raincoat, playing with rainwater at the outdoor play area of Your Place Childcare in Silverdale, enjoying nature-based learning and hands-on activities.

This framework centres on developing positive character traits and virtues such as empathy, respect, and responsibility. By integrating these virtues into the curriculum, The Virtues Project encourages children to understand and practise key emotional and social skills. At Your Place Childcare, educators work alongside children and families to nurture these values, fostering a strong sense of community and personal responsibility while creating opportunities for children to play and learn in a supportive, nature-based environment.

These philosophies guide our approach to early learning and childcare, ensuring that every child is respected as a capable and curious learner.

What We Value at Your Place Childcare

The Importance of Play

Play-based learning is central to a child’s development in early learning and childcare. It fosters cognitive, social, and emotional growth, allowing children to explore and learn in an engaging, fun, and nature-based environment.

Our Strategy

We focus on child-centred care, nurturing creativity, and promoting a healthy, safe, and stimulating environment. These strategies ensure each child has the freedom to develop at their own pace in a supportive early learning and childcare setting where they can play and learn with curiosity and joy.

Our Vision

We aim to provide a nurturing, engaging environment where children’s individual development is supported. Our long-term goal is to prepare children for success in both school and life by fostering resilience and confidence through quality early learning and childcare, where they can play and learn in meaningful ways.

Our Image of the Parent

Happy family enjoying a picnic together, showcasing family bonding and quality time for parents.

Parents are vital partners in the learning process. We value open communication and collaboration, working together to ensure the best possible outcomes for each child’s growth and development in early learning and childcare.

Our Image of the Child

We see every child as capable, curious, and a natural learner. Through guided play and discovery in early learning and childcare, children explore the world around them, developing vital skills for life in a nature-based setting.

Toddler reaching out to touch leaves hanging from a tree, exploring nature and developing motor skills in an early learning environment.

Our Image of the Educator

Teacher guiding a child while pointing to their art and craft, fostering creativity and communication in early childhood education.

Our educators are guides, role models, and advocates for each child. They create a nurturing, supportive environment that encourages independence, creativity, and emotional well-being, allowing children to play and learn in a safe, engaging environment.

Conclusion

At Your Place Childcare, we blend these guiding philosophies and values to provide the best environment for every child to grow, learn, and develop. By fostering respect, creativity, and a love for learning in a nature-based setting, we empower each child to thrive in early learning and childcare.

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