Choose wisely

Deciding on an early learning centre is one of the first big decisions you'll make for your child. BestStart answers some of their most commonly asked questions to help parents feel informed, confident and secure. 

How do I know which centres to consider?

Friends, whānau, and neighbours often have great insights into centres nearby. Their personal experiences can give you a feel for what daily life is like inside a centre. From there, explore each centre's website and social media. This helps you get a sense of their learning environment, play experiences and values. It’s also a good idea to read Education Review Office (ERO) reports for independent assessments of things like health, safety and teaching quality.

When should I start looking into early learning options?

This depends on where you live. In some areas, centres fill up quickly. If you know your baby will be starting ECE when your parental leave ends, or if you have a strong preference for a specific centre, it’s best to reach out while you’re still pregnant. Ask the centre when you should book a visit, when enrolments typically need to be finalised and if they offer a waitlist option if full.

What should I do when I visit a centre?

Visits are a great chance to see how a centre feels in action. Watch how teachers interact with children - are they warm, attentive and respectful? The ERO’s What Matters Most guide is a helpful tool to use during your visit, with tips on what to look and listen for.

How will the centre keep me connected to my child’s learning?

Strong communication helps build trust, especially before your child can tell you how their day went. Ask how the centre shares updates with you and whether this matches your expectations. This might be through daily diaries, parent apps or casual conversations at pick-up. Clear, ongoing communication is a sign of a centre that values whānau partnerships.

What should I look for in the teachers?

The teaching team plays a huge role in your child’s early learning journey. It’s a good idea to ask about their qualifications, experience, and what kind of professional development they do to stay up to date with best practice. You’ll also want to understand their teaching philosophy. Ask how they approach learning and care and see if what they say matches what you observe. A centre’s philosophy should reflect a genuine commitment to nurturing children and teachers should be able to explain how this shows up in daily routines and play experiences.

What should I ask about for babies and under twos?

Care routines are especially important for infants. Ask how they support each baby’s individual needs. Are routines like feeding and sleep flexible? Are nappy changes and hygiene handled respectfully? What do they provide for meals and bottles?

Final tip: Trust your instincts

Every family is different, and what feels right for one child might not be the same for another. As you visit centres and ask questions, pay attention to how you feel. A centre where you and your child feel welcomed, safe and supported is likely to be a great fit.

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