Choosing the right place for your child’s early learning journey is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a parent. Here in Tāmaki Makaurau, there are many different options—from large centres to smaller home-based settings like ours at Kia Ora Kids. We know families often feel unsure about what to look for, so we’ve put together 15 key questions you can ask when exploring early childhood education Auckland services. These questions will help you compare options and also give you a sense of whether the environment truly feels right for your whānau.
1. What is your teaching philosophy?
Every service has its own philosophy—Montessori, play-based, Reggio Emilia, kaupapa Māori, or home-based. At Kia Ora Kids, our philosophy is simple: small groups, big love. We believe children thrive in safe, nurturing home environments where relationships, play, and everyday experiences guide learning. This is what makes us proud to be part of the early childhood education Auckland community.
2. How do you bring Te Whāriki to life?
Te Whāriki is Aotearoa’s early childhood curriculum. You should expect to see it woven into daily routines and play. For us, it comes alive through baking, music, park visits, crafts, and playgroups—real-life experiences that help tamariki explore, discover, and grow.
3. How do you support children to settle in?
Starting somewhere new can feel big for tamariki. We arrange visits so families can meet the educator and spend time in their home first. This way, children become familiar with their new space and relationships before their first full day. This gentle approach is part of what makes us a trusted choice for early childhood education Auckland families.
4. What qualifications do your teachers have?
Qualified, supported kaiako make all the difference. At Kia Ora Kids, we provide training and ongoing professional development for our educators—including free online early childhood courses—so they feel confident and capable in their role.
5. What is your teacher-to-child ratio?
Ask about ratios—it shapes the level of care and attention. In our homes, we care for no more than four children under six. This small number allows for genuine one-on-one time and stronger, trusting relationships.
6. How do you ensure children’s safety?
Safety is a non-negotiable. We are a licensed provider with robust safety checks, clear policies, and regular support for educators, so parents can feel secure knowing their children are well cared for.
7. How do you communicate with parents and whānau?
Good communication keeps families connected. Our educators share daily updates, learning stories, and conversations at pick-up, so you always know how your child’s day has been.
8. How do you celebrate culture and language?
Auckland is beautifully diverse. We love celebrating this through te reo Māori, Pacific languages, and the unique cultural traditions our educators bring. Children are encouraged to share their identity with pride.
9. What is your approach to behaviour guidance?
Respectful, consistent, positive guidance helps tamariki learn how to get along with others. We focus on gentle guidance, encouragement, and role-modelling kindness.
10. What does a typical day look like?
Every day is different—but always filled with fun and learning. With Kia Ora Kids, a day might include baking muffins, visiting the library, painting, singing, or exploring a local park. For families comparing different early childhood education Auckland options, this balance of structure and flexibility is worth asking about.
11. How do you support children with additional needs?
It’s important to know how a service supports diverse learners. We work closely with families and connect with specialists when needed, ensuring every child feels supported and included.
12. How do you practice sustainability?
Children learn through doing. Many of our educators garden, compost, and reuse everyday materials for creative play. Tamariki get to see how their small actions help care for Papatūānuku.
13. What is your outdoor environment like?
Fresh air and outdoor play are vital. Each Kia Ora Kids home offers safe outdoor spaces, and educators also make use of local parks and nature walks to give children a variety of experiences.
14. What are the fees and what’s included?
Ask about what’s covered—meals, outings, 20 Hours ECE, nappies. At Kia Ora Kids, we’re upfront about fees and subsidies, and we’ll help you choose the option that best suits your family.
15. Can I speak with other parents?
Hearing from other families can give you confidence. Many parents of Kia Ora Kids tamariki have shared kind words about their educators’ warmth, creativity, and the strong bonds they’ve built. These voices are part of what sets our home-based care apart within the early childhood education Auckland landscape.
Final Thought
When you visit an early childhood education Auckland centre, don’t just listen to the answers—watch how the children play, how educators interact, and how the environment feels. At Kia Ora Kids, we pride ourselves on offering small, nurturing, home-based environments where tamariki feel at home and whānau feel at ease. We’d love to welcome you into one of our homes, introduce you to an educator, and help you find the right fit for your child’s learning journey.