🐾 Wiggles, Wobbles & Wonder: Movement and Play in Our Pēpi Room

BestStart Tawa
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In our Pēpi Room (9 months to 2 years), movement and play are part of every moment.

Whether it’s a joyful bounce, a determined crawl, or a wobbly first step, our tamariki are constantly exploring their bodies and the world around them.

How We Move and Play 

Indoors, we set up: 

  • Soft obstacle courses for crawling, climbing, and balancing. 
  • Dance and movement sessions with music and waiata. 
  • Sensory-rich play with tunnels, blocks, and textured toys. 

Outdoors, our pēpi enjoy:

  • Climbing frames, push toys, and grassy spaces for free movement. 
  • Equipment that encourages pulling up, cruising, and walking. 
  • Group movement games led by kaiako to support coordination and social play. 

Our Environment:

The Third Teacher 

We thoughtfully design our spaces to encourage safe, independent exploration. Low shelves, open floor areas, and natural materials invite pēpi to move freely, make choices, and build confidence. Our environment supports curiosity, risk-taking, and self-discovery - key ingredients in early learning. 

What Our Pēpi Learn

Through movement and play, pēpi develop: 

  • Gross motor skills like crawling, standing, and walking. 
  • Balance and coordination through climbing and dancing. 
  • Spatial awareness and confidence in their bodies. 
  • Social and emotional skills through shared play and connection. 

These experiences support key milestones and help pēpi become confident, capable movers - ready to take on the world, one wobbly step at a time. 

Every Wiggle Tells a Story

In our Pēpi Room, every bounce, wobble, and giggle is a celebration of growth. As our pēpi move through their world with wonder and determination, they’re not just playing - they’re building the foundations for a lifetime of learning. With each joyful step, they remind us that movement is magic, and play is powerful.

Here's to the tiny explorers, the curious climbers, and the brave first steppers - your journey has only just begun, and we’re honoured to walk (and wobble!) beside you.

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