The Best Age to Start School. By Dr Sarah Alexander.
In New Zealand nearly all children have their first full day at primary school on or very close to their 5th birthday. This is a social custom as it is not a legal requirement for families to enrol their child until 6 years of age. Parents have a choice to continue their child in early ch
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Teaching resources and advice on probably everything you can think of, including what to wear as a teacher, how to ask for a pay raise, identifying child behaviour causes and responding to needs, new play activity ideas, etc., etc. all of this is at your finger-tips 24/7 whenever you need help or advice – login to view.
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Sleeping During the Day at ECE.
Nap, sleep and rest times have led to tensions and stand-offs between teachers, parents and children in some centres and home-based services.
Perhaps instead of asking who should decide whether a child has a sleep or nap, when, and for how long, we should work toward solutions that please and best suit everyon
Infant at centre left horribly burnt by hot water OPINION. Dr Sarah Alexander. February 19. 2017. An infant was burnt horribly while being bathed at
A critique of the Competent Children Study (Competent Learners Research Project) By Sarah Alexander and Gillian Croad. The Competent Children Study. The Competent Children/ Learners
Here’s not only a template for a qualified ECE teacher job description but also a sample JD for you to use and adapt. If you would like more guidance and ideas go to the main article about writing JDs.
Template
Service name or Logo
Position description
POSITION/ ROLE:
E.g. Qualified early childhood teacher
POSITION/ ROLE TYPE:
E.g.
Research on ways early childhood educators can use a strengths based approach when working with vulnerable children and families and the ‘mind-shift’ and resources important. Read the full paper below. Or to order a pdf copy of the article go to the main NZIRECE Journal page.
Updated April 2026 with the latest regulatory requirements.
A strong child protection policy isn’t just about meeting licensing standards – it’s a core safeguard for children, your team, and the trust families place in your service.
With new 2026 updates now in force, it’s essential your policy reflects current expectations and best practice.
Log in with your member details to read the full guidance. If your service’s membership has lapsed or you’d like to join, get in touch and we’ll help you get set up quickly.
On this page, we break down the latest regulatory changes, provide the most effective template to use, and share practical insights to help your service demonstrate a genuine, proactive commitment to child protection.
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