BestStart Shelly Bay Road

Our youngest learners, known as the Determined Discoverers, begin their journey in the Harakeke Room.

In this infant childcare space, babies are supported through gentle, responsive care and heuristic play, where they explore real-life objects to make sense of the world around them. Our teachers build strong, nurturing relationships with each child, supporting secure attachment and healthy development.

We work closely with whānau to maintain individual routines and ensure a smooth transition between home and our Beachlands childcare environment.

In the Kōwhai Room, our toddlers, known as Energetic Explorers, enjoy a rich early learning environment designed to spark curiosity and independence.

This toddler room encourages exploration, imagination, and social interaction through play-based learning. Children are supported to follow their interests, build confidence, and develop early social and emotional skills through meaningful experiences with peers and teachers.

Our preschoolers, known as Aspiring Adventurers, participate in our school readiness programme designed to support confident transitions into primary school.

In this early learning room, children build independence, communication skills, and a strong sense of identity through inquiry-based learning and positive relationships. Their learning is guided by their interests and supported through meaningful experiences that encourage curiosity, creativity, and resilience.

As part of our Beachlands childcare community, children also enjoy regular outdoor exploration in our coastal environment, strengthening their connection to nature and the world around them.

Our outdoor environment is an extension of our early learning programme, offering children space to explore, take risks, and connect with nature. Outdoor play supports physical development, problem-solving, and social learning in a natural setting.