Toddlers

Finding the right care and early learning program is crucial to supporting inquisitive and active toddlers.

We start with care, recognising that it builds trust in us. We get to know them and envelop them in plenty of loving cuddles, so they feel settled in our nurturing care. That’s when they’re ready to learn.

We believe learning happens in an environment that encourages their natural curiosity, supports their social and emotional development, and provides the space for independent exploration. Throughout your child’s day, they’ll have fun enjoying a mix of group time, individual time, free time, and sensory-rich experiences.

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Here’s what life at our centre might look like for your energetic toddler:

Kaiako working in partnership with whānau to support your child’s familiar rhythms and rituals at the centre, where possible.
Providing them with the freedom to express themselves through imaginative and creative fun times, storytelling, movement, and role-playing within our play-oriented environment.
Opportunities throughout the day for your child to build their competency and understanding of language, other emerging skills and concepts through repetition, conversations and shared stories.
A care and learning environment that encourages your child to build confidence, practise self-help skills and develop growing independence.
Daily play experiences that challenge their physical energy, coordination, balance, and foundational skills needed for future success in school.

By choosing Kindercare, you can be confident that your child is in safe, experienced, loving, and trusted hands.

Frequently asked questions

What is Kindercare’s approach to toilet training?

We support children with toilet learning in partnership with you and at your child’s own pace.

We understand that every child is different, and there is no one “right” age to begin. What matters more is that your child feels ready, confident, and supported.

We generally see toilet learning develop within the 2–3 years of age, and our Teachers work closely with you to ensure a consistent, gentle approach between home and centre. Together, we agree on the best time to begin and support your child with encouragement, patience, and care.

As children grow and begin to transition into older learning spaces, being confident with toileting can help them feel more independent and able to fully participate alongside their peers. Supporting your child with this learning during the toddler years helps create a smooth and positive transition when they are ready for the next stage.

Our focus is always on helping your child build confidence and independence in a way that feels positive, respectful, and right for them.

How will you support my child with big emotions?

We begin by recognising that every child is unique and deserves to feel seen, heard, and understood.

We see big (and small) feelings as a natural and important part of your child’s growing independence and learning. Our teachers take a calm, responsive approach—supporting children to name their feelings, feel safe, and gradually learn ways to manage and express their emotions.

Our curriculum nurtures a You Can Do It! culture, building children’s confidence, resilience, and social skills over time. We also work in partnership with you, so together we can provide a consistent, supportive approach both at home and at centre.

You can learn more about this in our approach to positive guidance and developing social-emotional competence.