Investigating our ecological identity, invited us to explore nature from a perspective, that can lead to the discovery, recognition, and reinvention of natural subjects. The process depended on our diverse cultural perspectives as well as our ability to create new and different visions of the original subject through the use of both analogue and digital […] The post Interpretations of Nature appeared first on Bear Park ..read more

At Bear Park, there is a strong emphasis on nurturing teachers who are dedicated to refining their methodologies. Here, we enhance our research-based approach by gathering evidence and documenting key moments of learning. Once we have gathered and structured and interpreted our observations, we are able to assess children’s learning approaches, identify schemas and theories, […] The post Teachers as Researchers appeared first on Bear Park ..read more

Our secret garden – a space for wonder, ako and empathy Nestled behind our centre is a secret garden, that is tucked away from the busyness of the world. Throughout the day this space is used by our tamariki, Kaiako and the creatures that live within it. In the mornings the preschool classrooms can be […] The post Our Secret Garden appeared first on Bear Park ..read more

One fine morning as one of our Kaiako was sitting along with our Tui tamariki by the friendship chair they all noticed a rock that was made by our alumni Abby who left the centre some time ago and now continues her learning journey at school. As the tamariki and Kaiako looked more closely, they […] The post Leaving my imprint – Liz Knight appeared first on Bear Park ..read more

Our mutual investigation this year at Bear Park Kohimarama “Awakening Relationships with Sustainable Communities” provoked us as kaiako to consider how we support tamariki to develop their strong sense of identity and contribute their unique ideas within a group as well as developing the range of skills and capacities needed to collaborate as a community […] The post Creating Connections Through Materials appeared first on Bear Park ..read more

Earlier this year, we had the honour of being nominated for the prestigious New Zealand Institute of Architects Awards and ultimately winning the Education category. The post NZ Building and Architecture Awards in 2024 – Bear Park Childcare. appeared first on Bear Park ..read more

Documentation is a vital path for making learning visible and as a way to share learning, discovery and development within our learning community. However, it is also a deeper and richer creative process that involves the children, teachers, parents and the environment. It emerges through the power of observation, noticing, conversations, intentions, listening, questions and responses. Documentation can be seen as a tool, resource and a process for thought; a process that draws on the past, sits in the present, and weaves itself into the future of our children’s learning and possibilities fo ..read more

There are many treasured values that make the Reggio Emilia philosophy so significant. The 100 Languages is of huge importance to this philosophy as it truly underpins the way children learn, how educators can ignite and foster children’s investigations, and the importance of supporting children in expressing themselves in an abundance of ways. The 100 languages refer to the “…many, many faceted ways children discover, communicate and learn. Each one of these ways is to be valued and nurtured within the learning environment. It is also believed that learning and playing are not separate but ..read more

When searching for care for your child online, many different options become apparent such as “Early Childhood Education Centres”, “Kindergarten”, “Home-based”, “Daycare”, “Playcentre” however it seems confusing to know which one to choose. Here at Bear Park, we prefer to refer to ourselves as “Early Childhood Learning Centres”. While the term daycare is commonly used, we wish to outline some of the differences between them all.    What is childcare? Childcare is supervised care and early education for young children, usually ranging from birth to around five years of age. It’s a s ..read more

At Bear Park, we endeavour to create a culture of respect for childhood as something to participate in – something rich in choices, joy, and wonder. We value and understand that every interaction or choice a child makes is a special and important moment of learning. We understand that an empowered child is an empowered learner. Thus, it is our job to ensure their mana is protected and at the forefront of our interactions to ensure they are gaining their sense of autonomy and identity as a learner. In the Morepork Room (16months – 2.5yrs), we lay the foundation for a love of learning. Our app ..read more