At BestStart Mahora, we know that play is one of the most powerful ways for tamariki to develop the social and emotional skills they will use for life.
This week, our sand play area became a hub of teamwork, communication, and joy as tamariki gathered together with their kaiako to dig, scoop, and create.
In moments like these, children are practising so much more than just physical coordination. They are learning about sharing space and resources, waiting for turns, and negotiating with their peers.
Each scoop of sand becomes an opportunity to practise patience, problem-solving, and kindness. Sand play also gives tamariki the chance to express themselves in creative ways, building confidence as they make decisions and test their ideas.
For some children, this might mean leading the play and showing others what they are making; for others, it’s about listening, observing, and joining in at their own pace. Both roles are equally valuable in developing a sense of belonging and contribution.
Our kaiako play a vital role in guiding these interactions—modelling respectful communication, encouraging positive relationships, and supporting tamariki to recognise and manage their emotions. Through this, children are learning that their feelings and ideas matter, while also learning to respect the feelings and perspectives of others.
At BestStart Mahora, we celebrate these everyday experiences as stepping stones towards building resilience, empathy, and strong friendships—skills that will serve our tamariki well both now and in the future.