Te Rūma Pihinga

Babies | Approximately 3 months to 18 months

Pihinga is a Māori word meaning seedling or young plant shoot. We chose this name because it reflects the journey of our youngest tamariki — growing from tiny, capable pēpē into confident, competent young children. Our approach is strongly influenced by the Pikler Approach and RIE philosophy, with a focus on respectful relationships, responsive caregiving and allowing children to develop at their own pace. Each child has a primary caregiver who gets to know their individual cues, routines, interests and ways of communicating. Caregiving moments such as feeding, nappy changes and settling are treated as important opportunities for connection and learning rather than tasks to be rushed through.

We provide babies with safe, open spaces where they can move and explore freely. Rather than placing children into positions they cannot achieve themselves, we allow them time to develop movement skills naturally. Babies can practise rolling, crawling, sitting, standing and eventually walking at their own pace. This approach supports children to develop confidence in their own bodies, persistence, concentration and a sense of themselves as capable learners.

For babies, learning happens throughout the day — through relationships, movement, sensory experiences, communication, play and caregiving routines.

Te Rūma Tupu

Toddlers | Approximately 18 months to 3 years

Tupu is a Māori word meaning to grow, develop or prosper. Te Rūma Tupu reflects this stage of children's journey as they grow in confidence, independence and capability. It is a nurturing environment where tamariki are supported to explore, develop new skills and build strong foundations for their ongoing learning. Toddlers are busy developing their independence, communication, physical skills and understanding of the world around them. Our environment gives children space to move, explore and make choices while knowing that familiar kaiako are nearby to provide support and reassurance. We recognise that everyday routines are significant learning opportunities. Getting dressed, washing hands, eating, toileting, tidying up and moving between activities all provide opportunities for children to develop independence, communication and social skills.

Toddlers learn by doing, trying, observing and repeating through play. Our programme provides opportunities for: physical exploration and movement, messy and sensory play, music, singing and stories, developing language and communication, social interactions with other children, problem-solving, developing independence, and exploring the natural environment. We give children time to understand what is happening and what is coming next. Kaiako communicate with children before helping them, giving them opportunities to participate and cooperate in their own care.

Te Rūma Puāwai

Preschoolers | Approximately 3 years to 6 years

Puāwai means to bloom or blossom. We connected this to tamariki growing, developing their strengths and discovering what they are capable of. The name reflects children becoming increasingly confident, independent and secure in their sense of belonging as they prepare for their next stage of learning. As children move into the preschool years, their world becomes bigger. They develop more complex friendships, communicate increasingly detailed ideas and become more capable of managing challenges independently. Our programme supports children to develop confidence, social competence and the skills they need to learn alongside others. Children have opportunities to explore: art and creative expression, music and movement, science and discovery, literacy and storytelling, numeracy and problem-solving, construction and open-ended resources, imaginative and dramatic play, physical challenges and outdoor exploration, and independence and self-help skills. Our kaiako intentionally extend children's ideas and interests, while also identifying individual learning goals and supporting children to develop the skills they will need for their next stage of learning.

Te Rūma Whanake

Transition to School | Approximately 4 years to 6 years

E whanake ana te rākau nei – This tree is growing. 

Whanake reflects the continued growth and development of our tamariki as they prepare for their next stage of learning. Te Rūma Whanake represents an important part of the journey at Whippersnappers, where tamariki build confidence, independence and the skills they need for school and beyond. We recognise that learning does not begin or end with preschool — it is an ongoing journey as children continue to grow into confident, capable and curious learners. Our Transition to School programme is designed to help tamariki develop the confidence, independence and foundational skills they need as they move towards school. Children who choose to participate attend a small-group session each morning for approximately 30 minutes. The programme includes: early literacy and phonological awareness, early numeracy, listening and following instructions, problem-solving, fine motor skills and early writing, communication and speaking confidence, independence, and school-style routines and expectations. We also maintain connections with local schools, including visits and opportunities for children to become familiar with the school environment. Our goal is not simply to teach children academic skills. We want children to feel confident, capable and ready to take their next step.