At BestStart Beach Haven, we believe learning is richer when we work together, share ideas and learn from one another. Through collaborative play and everyday experiences, tamariki are encouraged to develop confidence, communication skills and a strong sense of belonging.
We nurture Māori values such as manaakitanga, caring for and supporting others; whanaungatanga, building relationships and connections; and ako, learning from one another. These values are woven into our everyday experiences as tamariki learn to listen, take turns, help their friends and celebrate each other’s ideas, achievements and cultures.
Working together also creates wonderful opportunities for imagination and curiosity. Whether tamariki are building, creating, exploring nature or engaging in pretend play, we encourage them to wonder, ask questions, experiment and share their own ideas.
There is no one way to play or create. Tamariki are encouraged to follow their imaginations and explore learning at their own pace and in their own time. Our kaiako support this by providing open-ended experiences where children can make choices, take the lead and learn alongside their friends.
Through these shared experiences, tamariki learn that their ideas matter, their contributions are valued and they can achieve more when they work together. These experiences help children develop communication, problem-solving, social and emotional skills while strengthening their relationships with others.
This approach reflects the principles of Te Whāriki, where relationships, collaboration and exploration are woven together to support children’s learning, wellbeing and growth.
He mahi tahi tātou – Together, we can learn, create and grow.