A Heart That Loves to Move
Did you know that a child’s heart beats almost twice as fast as an adult’s? Every wiggle, run, and jump gives their heart the workout it needs to grow strong. At BestStart, we know that active play isn’t just fun—it’s the foundation for a healthy, confident future.
Why Active Play Matters
Children’s hearts, muscles, and brains are still developing. When tamariki run, climb, dance, and explore, they:
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Strengthen their heart and lungs
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Build coordination and balance
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Boost mood and reduce stress
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Grow confidence in their own abilities
This is learning through play—exactly what Te Whāriki, New Zealand’s early childhood curriculum, encourages through Mana Aotūroa | Exploration.
How We Do It at BestStart
Our kaiako create environments where tamariki move naturally every day:
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Outdoor adventures – obstacle courses, climbing, sandpits, and bikes
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Indoor energy breaks – dancing, yoga, and movement games
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Whānau involvement – inviting parents to share games from home cultures
These experiences help children connect movement with joy, setting up lifelong healthy habits.
Tips for Whānau: Heart-Healthy Fun at Home
You don’t need fancy equipment—just a little space and imagination! Try these ideas:
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Family Dance Party – Put on a favourite song and dance together.
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Nature Treasure Hunt – Walk to the park and collect leaves, stones, or sticks.
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Chore Challenge – Turn tidying into a game! Set a timer and see how much you can tidy together before the bell rings.
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Skipping & Jumping – Skipping ropes or hopscotch keep little hearts racing happily.
Strong Hearts, Bright Futures
When children move, they aren’t just playing—they’re learning resilience, confidence, and joy. At BestStart, we believe every jump and giggle builds not only strong bodies but strong futures. Together with whānau, we celebrate the little steps that keep tamariki hearts healthy and full of aroha. Every heartbeat is a step towards lifelong wellbeing.