Finding the right early childhood centre (ECC) for your child is a big decision. It can feel overwhelming, especially in Auckland, where each centre has something unique to offer. What’s best for one child may not be a priority for another. So, how do you make the right choice?
Here are some of the key things to consider when choosing an early childhood centre (ECC):
What Are the Teacher-to-Child Ratios?
The Ministry of Education requires a ratio of one teacher to five children for children under two years old. However, many teachers believe this is not enough. At Treetops, we maintain a ratio of one teacher to four children for children under two.
For children over two, our ratios vary by class, based on their needs. The Ministry of Education recommends a ratio of one teacher to ten children. At Treetops, our ratio for over two-year-olds ranges from one teacher to six children, to one teacher to nine children for our four-year-olds.
How Many Qualified Teachers Are There?
The Ministry of Education requires at least 50% of our teachers to be qualified. However, we believe this is just the minimum standard. At Treetops early childhood centre, we ensure that at least 80% of our teachers are qualified, often reaching 90-100%, depending on enrolments.
Qualifications are important, but they’re not everything. All our teachers are selected for their passion for children and their commitment to ongoing professional development.
Which Room Will My Child Be in?
We consider more than just your child’s age when deciding which room is best. While we have a broad age range in our rooms, we recognise that each child develops at their own pace. We’ll talk with you to determine which room is the best fit for your child.
What if My Child Doesn’t Speak English?
At Treetops, we celebrate diversity and are committed to an inclusive environment. Many of our teachers speak multiple languages, and we welcome children who don’t speak English as their first language.
Our teachers are skilled in non-verbal communication and will model English language through play. If your family speaks a language we’re unfamiliar with, we’ll work with you to ensure your child feels comfortable and supported.
How Long Has Your Team Been at the Centre?
A stable team is key to providing high-quality care. While staff turnover is inevitable, consistency matters. At Treetops, many of our teachers have been with us for over 10 years. A long-serving, experienced team can offer your child the stability they need.
What is Primary Caregiving, and Why Is It Important?
Primary caregiving helps children form secure attachments with their teachers. This allows teachers to understand your child’s cues and meet their needs promptly. You’ll also build a stronger relationship with your child’s primary caregiver, improving communication.
Children still interact with other teachers throughout the day, but their primary caregiver ensures their overall well-being.
What Are the Routines in Each Room?
We describe our routines as “daily rhythms.” These rituals create a sense of predictability and calm for children. Our rooms may have slight variations in routine, but they’re designed to suit the needs of the children in each space.
Why Is Play-Based Learning Important?
We focus on unstructured play because we believe it’s essential for learning. Our programme is child-led and based on children’s interests. Through careful observation, we extend their learning and provide opportunities for development.
At Treetops, we believe that “play is the work of children.” We encourage open communication about your child’s learning with any of our teachers.
How Many Transitions Will My Child Go Through?
Transitions are an inevitable part of your child’s journey in an ECE setting. They will first transition into our centre, then between rooms, and eventually to primary school. At our Botany and Junction centres, there are three rooms, while our Pukekohe centre has four.
What Does the Transition Process Look Like?
We believe in a slow, child-led transition process. It can take 2-3 weeks, with multiple visits, to ensure your child feels settled. You’ll be part of this process, working closely with your child’s teacher to maintain consistency and comfort.
Do You Provide Food? Can I See a Sample Menu?
Yes, we provide nutritious meals, including morning tea, afternoon tea, and a cooked lunch. Our menu caters to all dietary needs, including allergies and vegetarian options. We also work with you to accommodate any specific dietary requirements for your child.
How Will I Find Out About My Child’s Learning?
At Treetops, we value communication with families. You’re welcome to speak to teachers at any time about your child’s development. We also use Educa, an online system, to share your child’s learning stories with you.
Our teachers keep learning documentation and photographs on display, and we encourage you to engage with these to support your child’s development.
Consider Your Parenting Style
It’s important to think about how your parenting style aligns with the centre’s philosophy. Do you prefer structured learning or free play? Consider group sizes, outdoor play, and other factors that are important to you. Finding a centre that aligns with your beliefs will help you feel comfortable and supported.
When Should I Start Looking for Child Care?
It’s never too early! Many families visit centres while still pregnant. We recommend visiting several centres to get a feel for them, and revisiting the ones you’re interested in. Spending time in the rooms and meeting teachers will help you feel more at ease.
Will It Matter If My Child Is Full-Time or Part-Time?
We cater to both full-time and part-time care. However, part-time care may have a waiting list. We ensure balanced teacher-to-child ratios, which may affect the availability of part-time spaces.
Do I Need to Make an Appointment?
You are more than welcome to book a centre tour from our contact us page on our website or if you are not sure about a day and time and feel like popping in when you are near one of our early childhood centres (ECC) in Botany or Pukekohe, then please feel free to pop in at anytime.
Should I Bring My Child with Me?
We welcome your child to visit alongside you. Some families prefer to visit first on their own, while others bring their child to familiarise them with the centre. Either option is fine; do what feels best for your family.
What Is the Enrolment Process?
Before enrolling, we ask you to visit the centre and meet the teachers. After confirming a space, you’ll need to complete the enrolment pack and submit relevant documents. We’ll guide you through the transition process and keep you updated on your child’s progress.
At Treetops early childhood centre (ECC), we provide high-quality care and education. Your child’s well-being is central to everything we do.
Trust Your Instincts
Once you’ve visited a few centres, trust your intuition. How do you feel about the centre? Did you feel welcome? Remember, you know your child best. We look forward to welcoming you to one of our Treetops early childhood centres (ECC) soon.
FREE DOWNLOAD: 14 QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN YOU LOOK FOR AN EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTRE (ECC)
Download our free, handy checklist to jot down notes and ensure you cover all the essential questions when choosing an early childhood center (ECC).
Plunket also offers insightful information and things to consider when you are ready to start looking for and early childhood centre. If you’d like to know more, please click on this link to read their article.
