Welcome to Our Early Learning and Childcare Centre in Silverdale

Children gathered around a small table, exploring dry leaves and engaging in hands-on learning at Your Place Childcare.

We specialise in early learning and childcare in Silverdale and the broader Hibiscus Coast area. We are dedicated to providing expert care and education for children from birth to age 3 and beyond, in a nature-based, nurturing environment designed to support their growth at every stage.

Our approach is inspired by the principles of Dr Emmi Pikler, Reggio Emilia, Te Whāriki, and The Virtues Project, ensuring that children receive the highest quality of care and education.

By combining the latest knowledge in brain development with personalised attention, we create a loving atmosphere that encourages emotional, social, and cognitive development. This approach empowers children to explore, learn, and grow confidently.

Partner with us to ensure your child receives the best start in life, fostering the skills they need for a bright future.

Meet Our Founder & Director

Melanie Howard, our founder and director, began her teaching journey in 1995 as a parent. Since then, she has supported children of all ages, including those with additional learning needs, and has led teams and managed centres. Melanie is also trained in The Virtues Project, which aligns with her commitment to fostering a nurturing and values-driven environment. Now, as a co-owner of the centre, she is proud to see her dream come to life.

"What makes Your Place special is our strong philosophy grounded in kindness. I warmly invite you to explore the wonderful activities and experiences we offer."

Melanie Howard

Our Values in Early Learning and Childcare

Child-Centred Learning

We embrace the philosophies of Reggio Emilia and Dr Emmi Pikler, ensuring that every child’s unique interests and development guide their learning journey. We create an environment where children are encouraged to explore, ask questions, and express themselves, fostering curiosity and a love for learning.

Holistic Development through Active Play

Inspired by the Te Whāriki framework, we provide opportunities for children to engage in active, hands-on experiences. Whether splashing in the rain, digging in the mud, or navigating obstacle courses, these activities help build confidence, social skills, and resilience—laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

Nurturing Values and Environmental Awareness

Through The Virtues Projects, we instil values such as kindness, respect, and responsibility in our children. We also integrate sustainable practices into everyday play by minimising plastic use and encouraging natural materials. By exploring nature and engaging with real-world objects, children develop creativity and a sense of environmental stewardship.

Testimonial

"As I reflect on my nearly five years at Your Place, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible experience of being part of such a caring and loving community. From the very beginning, I knew I had found a special place where children, families, and staff alike are treated with kindness, respect, and genuine care."

Carla P. S.

Mum of 2

Why Choose a Nature-Based Learning Centre?

We believe in the transformative power of nature for a child’s development. Here’s why our nature-based approach sets us apart:

Enhanced Learning Through Nature

Nature provides endless opportunities for hands-on, real-world learning. Children engage with their environment, exploring the outdoors and developing a deeper connection to the world around them—fostering curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.

Holistic Development

Nature-based learning promotes physical, emotional, and cognitive growth. By engaging in outdoor play, children improve motor skills, foster creativity, and build social connections while developing resilience—key aspects of the Te Whāriki curriculum.

Connection with the Environment

In today’s digital age, fostering an early connection to nature is more important than ever. Our curriculum integrates environmental awareness, sustainability, and respect for the planet into every activity, allowing children to grow up as kaitiaki (guardians) of Aotearoa’s beautiful environment.

Health and Well-Being

Being outdoors boosts mental health, reduces stress, and increases overall well-being. Nature-based play encourages physical activity, which promotes good health and helps children build strong, healthy bodies.

A Different Kind of Learning

Unlike traditional settings, where children are often confined to classrooms, our centre places a strong emphasis on outdoor exploration. We blend structured learning with the freedom to roam, creating a rich, dynamic environment that fosters curiosity, growth, and a sense of connection to nature.

Addressing Concerns

We understand that parents may worry about their child getting dirty while playing with mud or water, or the risk of getting sick. Here’s why we believe these experiences are not only safe but beneficial:

Learning Through Play

Getting dirty is part of the learning process! It helps children develop sensory awareness, creativity, and a sense of adventure. Our educators guide children in washing their hands and ensuring they stay clean and comfortable.

Health and Safety

We take health and hygiene seriously. While outdoor play in nature might involve playing in puddles or exploring dirt, we ensure that our environment is safe and supervised. Water play is done with care, and children are encouraged to dry off and change into clean clothes when necessary.

Building Immunity and Resilience

Exposure to different environments, like playing with mud or water, helps build a child’s immune system naturally. These experiences foster resilience and teach children how to navigate different situations safely.

Preparing for Play

To ensure your child is ready for a full day of outdoor adventure, we advise parents to dress their children in clothes suitable for play. We also recommend bringing several changes of clothes, a sun hat, and gumboots, so they can stay comfortable and prepared for whatever the day brings.

Your Place Childcare

Your Place Childcare in Silverdale offers a nurturing, home-like environment focused on early childhood development. Discover our mission to empower children through safe, supportive care and values of kindness, respect, and growth.