Creating a mana-enhancing curriculum for tamariki
At Dunstan Educare, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential. Our programs are designed to provide a nurturing and mana-enhancing environment, where children can learn, grow, and flourish. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, we are committed to providing the highest quality care and education to Whānau in Kāmoanahaehae/Alexandra.
At Dunstan Educare, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential. Our programs are designed to provide a nurturing and mana-enhancing environment, where children can learn, grow, and flourish. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, we are committed to providing the highest quality care and education to Whānau in Kāmoanahaehae/Alexandra.
There are some separate areas for groups to learn together, our Koru Lounge is where our under 2 tamariki spend the majority of their day. We have a 1:3 ratio in this space, with it's own outside area as well. It has a warm home like feel, with qualified kaiako who have specialised in caring for this age group.
We follow the RIE philosophy in this space, letting our tamariki develop in their own space and time, each individual encouraged to be as independent and having a voice in their care routine.
To learn more about this philosophy click on this link: The Pikler/Resources for Infant Educarers™ approach
In our spacious backyard is where our over 2 friends love to be. Our team of qualified kaiako (teachers) create opportunities for tamariki to explore, create, learn and grow. We have a sandpit, a mud kitchen, swings, a slide, a bike track, woodwork area, chickens, our turtles summertime pool area, trees to read & dream under (and climb!) a whare (house) to pretend in, fruit trees and gardens to learn about being kaitiaki (caregivers of our environments).
Murtle and Yoda our turtles spend the warmer months outside in their pond, basking in the sun and watching the tamariki play.
Planting seed and looking after our gardens and environment are another area of learning for tamariki.
Singing together and having fun - here is one of our kapahaka sessions, learning Maori waiata and performances for special guests and concerts for our whanau.
Our Educare kai cafe aka the mud kitchen - complete with microwave and barbeque, where coffees and cakes are always on offer - join us for some manaakitanga/hospitality.
Our programs
Koru Lounge
Our nurturing infant program provides a safe and loving environment where your pēpi/baby can thrive. Our experienced kaiako focus on providing primary caregiving roles, fostering emotional and physical development, and creating a strong foundation for future learning.
Ruma Kea
Our kea program encourages exploration, discovery, and social interactions for our tamariki aged 2 - 5. We provide a variety of age-appropriate activities and resources that promote language development, problem-solving skills, and independence.
Pūkeko
Our comprehensive preschool program prepares children for a successful transition to kura/school. Our curriculum supports group learning experiences that include literacy, numeracy, science, and social studies, while also nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and a love for learning.
Lunches at Educare
Ideas and tips
Morning and Afternoon teas are catered here at Educare, so lunches are the only foods you need to supply. Here are our lunchbox guidelines for tips and tricks on making it easy!
Please note we are a nut-free centre.
*I've also added tips for fussy eaters.
Our Kaupapa
At Dunstan Educare we believe that play is essential for a child's development. Through play, children learn about themselves, their environment, and how to interact with others. Our programs are designed to encourage active learning, exploration, and creativity, providing children with opportunities to develop their physical, cognitive, social, and emotional skills.
We also value the importance of biculturalism and te ao Māori (the Māori worldview) in early childhood education. Our programs incorporate Tikanga Māori me ngā Te Reo Māori, helping tamariki to develop a strong sense of Tūrangawaewae/identity and belonging.