Why is Playcentre so special…
About Mount Maunganui Playcentre
At Mount Maunganui Playcentre, we value parents as the first and best educators of their tamariki. We strongly believe in the Playcentre kaupapa “Whānau tupu ngātahi – families growing together.”
Playcentre provides a unique experience for kiwi families, that allows parents, caregivers and grandparents to be part of their children’s education. Playcentre also offers a free NZQA approved education programme to develop parenting skills and understanding of how children learn and develop. This unique opportunity sets Playcentre apart from any other playgroup, kindergarten, childcare, preschool and daycare option.
As a family, and as a community, parents are able to build a village with Playcentre; making life-long friends along the way. Our members have the opportunity to see their children flourish in our surroundings - they are able to play with them, learn alongside them, and encourage them to interact with others while meeting other parents and educators.
With over 400 centres across the motu - all managed by parents, with the support of our charitable trust, Playcentre Aotearoa - we foster the involvement of whānau through early childhood education.
History
Playcentre Aotearoa is an internationally recognised organisation that was first established in New Zealand in 1941. Now with over 400 centres across New Zealand, Playcentre is truly a one-of-a-kind early childhood organisation.
From the start, Playcentre was a community-driven organisation, and its kaupapa is centred around “Whānau Tupu Ngatahi – families growing together”.
The original vision of Playcentre was to provide child-initiated play in a community environment, with parents as educators the centre of their children's learning.
Playcentre acknowledges and honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi as the founding document of New Zealand and honours Maori tikanga and Te Ao Maori via its ‘Two House’ decision making model. To learn more about Playcentre Aotearoa, visit www.playcentre.org.nz
"For 80 years, Playcentre has been offering families in New Zealand the chance to play, grow, and learn together, as well as to forge meaningful friendships with other families in the community."
- David Moger, Chief Executive, Playcentre Aotearoa