Growing tamariki with confidence, curiosity and aroha
The heart of early learning in Upper Hutt
Children First - A place to explore, belong and become
Nestled between Heretaunga and Trentham, on the corner of Fergusson Drive and Sunderland Ave, our Centre is a warm and welcoming place for tamariki to thrive. With a strong focus on play through learning, our passionate teachers support each child with rich learning experiences that nurture connection, confidence, and joy!
Play-Based Learning
Our kaiako support the learning that happens naturally through play, helping children grow curiosity, creativity and a love of learning.
Caring Kaiako
Nurturing the children is our main priority, so our qualified and attentive kaiako (teachers) build genuine relationships and understand the unique needs of each child.
A Place To Belong
Tamariki are empowered to learn when they feel valued and respected. Children First is a place to feel safe, settled and at home - a part of our whānau.
Open Communication
We value our family community and want you to be a big part of your child’s learning journey. So, communication is a huge priority for us.
Preparation for School
Children have a lifetime of learning ahead of them, so we gently build independence, social skills and confidence to prepare them for school, and beyond.
Great Facilities
Our facilities are like a home away from home. With plenty of space to play and learn, the tamariki will thrive. Step into our space and instantly feel a sense of belonging.
“HE AROHA WHAKATO, HE AROHA KA PUTA MAI”
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If kindness is sown, then kindness is what you shall receive.
Our Philosophy
At Children First, we believe every child is unique and full of potential. That’s why we value and honour each tamaiti for who they are, embracing their culture, diversity and abilities. Our centre is a place where children and whanau are welcomed with respect, dignity and aroha every day.
We strive to provide exceptional care and meaningful learning experiences for all children who walk through our doors.
Our Mission
Children First is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment where diversity and connection are celebrated. We aim to inspire lifelong learners by nurturing strong relationships between the tamariki, teachers and whānau.
Through thoughtful teaching practice, responsive interactions and a play-based curriculum, we empower each child to follow their interests, build their skills and trust their own abilities
Our Vision
We want every child to feel valued, capable and confident. So, we have created a play-based environment where the tamariki experience mana atua (wellbeing) and feel a strong sense of empowerment and belonging.
Our vision is that each child leaves our centre with a strong sense of who they are, a love for learning, and the confidence to step boldly into the world.
Why Choose us?
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“The big reason we chose this daycare is the staff. We looked at almost every other daycare around but as soon as we met the lovely staff here we knew our children would be well looked after. Care and love is our most important thing.”
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“We have watched our child thrive in the care of Children First. Your centre has been amazing and we couldn’t be more thankful.”
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“Our daughter has been attending Children First now for just over 4 months. In this very short period of time her speech and communication has taken massive strides, her love for music, songs and dance is encouraged and she is totally toilet trained thanks to the guidance and encouragement she’s received there!”
Our Rooms
Kiwi Ruma
Our Kiwi Ruma is a calm, caring space designed especially for our youngest tamariki. With a playroom, a sunny outdoor area including a sandpit and shade sails, a cosy sleep room, and a handy kitchenette, our little ones have everything they need to explore at their own gentle pace.
We encourage the tamariki to discover, experiment, and use all their senses as they learn about their world.
Pukeko Ruma
In our Pukeko Ruma, tamariki are encouraged to explore in their own time and in their own way. Every day brings new opportunities to investigate, ask questions and build on what they already know.
With flexible spaces inside and out, our kaiako support the children to follow their interests, set their own learning goals and grow as confident, capable learners.