Our programme

We provide a programme structured to allow all children to extend and develop at their own physical, social and emotional level.

Our programme is based on the New Zealand Early Childhood Curriculum called Te Whaariki.

Children are encouraged to make choices and are given opportunities for exploratory, creative, dramatic, constructive, manipulative, physical, social, communicative, musical and problem solving play.

Our emphasis is on personal growth and development. We believe that children have the right to develop at their own pace with guidance from the teachers.   

"Our aim is to send children from Stepping Stones with inquiring minds, confidence, and a sense of self worth."

Some terms we may use in documenting your child's progress:

1. Cognitive skills.... the development of things such as perception,memory,problem solving,language,social skills

2. Fine motor skills.... movements of the small muscles.eg.using scissors, holding pencils and crayons,

3. Gross motor skills... movements of the large muscles e.g.running,climbing,bike riding

Individual Portfolios

These are compiled at the centre and are a great way for us to monitor your child’s progress. These are available for you to look at and we welcome your feedback and suggestions. Please also note that photos of your child will be taken to reinforce these observations and at times your child may be in group photos that go into other children’s files. If you do not wish this happen please notify us. These are only used for Stepping Stones purposes.

Daily routine

Whilst our daily routine may vary, based on the activities planned for the day, generally the programme will follow the following format:  

8.00 am	Centre opens    Free choice play
9.00 am	Group time - singing, finger plays, books, rhymes, storyboards
9.30 am	Morning tea time
10.00 am	Free choice play, art activities available
11.00 am	Lunch time
12.00 noon	Pick up time - Morning session closes    Sleep / rest time for full day children
3.00 pm	Afternoon tea    Free choice / art activities
4.45 pm	Group time - quiet time
5.00 pm	Pick up time - afternoon session closes
5.30 pm	Final pick up time - All day children.

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