This week, some of our kaiako had the privilege of attending a Kāhui Ako meeting at our local primary school – Whangaparāoa School – where we discussed school readiness and how we can better support families, especially in relation to referrals for special education services.

We know that the transition to primary school is an important milestone, and we’re here to make that journey as smooth and joyful as possible for every child.

To help whānau navigate this exciting time, here are some key areas to focus on, using Te Whāriki, the New Zealand early childhood curriculum, as our guide:

1. Oral Language Skills

Language development is one of the most crucial foundations for school readiness. Encouraging communication through everyday activities—like reading together, asking questions about stories, and playing rhyming games—creates a rich language environment for your child.

In Te Whāriki, we place a strong emphasis on “Communication” (Mana Reo), helping tamariki express themselves confidently through conversation and storytelling.

At BestStart Whangaparāoa, we incorporate these practices into our daily routine, making language development fun and engaging. By nurturing these skills early, your child will be ready to communicate effectively in school.

2. Fine Motor Skills

Fine motor skills are essential for tasks like holding a pencil, dressing independently, and managing their school bag.

We encourage tamariki to engage in activities like playdough, cutting, drawing, threading beads, and solving puzzles. These activities help strengthen hand-eye coordination and dexterity.

In line with Te Whāriki’s principles of “Exploration” (Mana Aotūroa) and “Contribution” (Mana Tangata), we provide plenty of opportunities for tamariki to use their hands and minds in creative and challenging ways.

These hands-on experiences not only build physical skills but also develop problem-solving and cognitive abilities.

3. Gross Motor Skills

Gross motor skills—such as running, climbing, and catching—are vital for a child’s overall development. These skills support physical health and daily self-care tasks, like dressing, getting in and out of the car, or playing in the playground.

At BestStart Whangaparāoa, we promote physical activity through outdoor play, where tamariki can develop strength and coordination.

Te Whāriki emphasises “Well-being” (Mana Atua), supporting tamariki to grow in a healthy, active, and safe environment. Physical development lays the foundation for confidence, resilience, and the ability to engage in school activities.

4. Self-Help Skills

Independence is a key factor in preparing tamariki for school life. Being able to walk into school with their bag on their back, say goodbye confidently, and manage toileting independently are all essential self-help skills.

We work with tamariki to foster a sense of responsibility and self-reliance, which are crucial for a smooth transition to primary school.

Te Whāriki's principle of “Belonging” (Mana Whenua) helps tamariki feel secure in their environment, allowing them to develop the confidence to tackle tasks independently.

At BestStart Whangaparāoa, we guide tamariki in these self-help skills through everyday routines, allowing them to practise and gain confidence in their ability to do things for themselves.

Our Commitment to School Readiness

At BestStart Whangaparāoa, we believe that each tamariki’s journey is unique, and we’re here to support whānau every step of the way.

We use Te Whāriki and our deep understanding of each child and whānau as the foundation of our learning and teaching, ensuring that tamariki are well-prepared for the next chapter in their educational journey.

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