Learning Doesn't Stop When the Day Ends

Children learn through everyday moments, relationships, play and exploration. Simple activities at home can provide valuable opportunities to talk, create, problem-solve and discover together.

Te Whāriki also recognises the important partnership between kaiako and whānau in supporting children's learning.

Helpful Resources for Families

Learning Through Play

Play gives children opportunities to explore, problem-solve, use their imagination and develop new skills.

Discover simple ways to support your child's learning through play at home.

Learning Through Everyday Activities

Some of the best learning happens during ordinary moments such as cooking, getting dressed, gardening, shopping and playing together.

You don't need to create special "learning lessons", talking, exploring and involving your child in everyday activities can all support their development. The Ministry of Education also provides resources for parents on learning together at home.

Talking Together

Talking with your child throughout the day helps support their communication and language development.

Everyday moments, such as mealtimes, car rides, walks and play—can all become opportunities to listen, talk, ask questions and share ideas together. Te Whāriki's Talking Together – Learning in the Home resource includes practical strategies and videos for whānau.

Books & Storytelling

Reading and storytelling together can support children's language, imagination and love of learning.

The Ministry of Education suggests sharing stories regularly, talking about books and encouraging children to retell and create their own stories.

Supporting Learning Through Encouragement

Children don't need adults to give them all the answers. Giving them opportunities to try, make mistakes, explore and solve problems can be an important part of learning.

KidsHealth also highlights the value of talking, singing, reading and supporting children while allowing them opportunities to discover things for themselves.