We support politicians in visiting early childhood services to see first-hand what ECE is like and to gain a better understanding of any issues or problems. It is also accepted for politicians to attend the opening of new services.
But, what if a politician wants to use your centre and children as a backdrop for their press conference. Would you say yes? Or would you say no?
Consider the following:
- How children will feel
- How this will disrupt the curriculum and normal routines and flow of the day
- Is this providing quality care and education for children
- How the ECE service may be seen by families who support a different political party.

KIA ORA EVERYBODY. IT IS FANTASTIC TO BE HERE.
THIS IS MY SECOND ECE VISIT THIS MORNING. I HAD TO DROP MY OWN KIDS AT DAY-CARE ON THE WAY ...
– May 12, 2021, Minister Hipkins presents a pre-Budget announcement to reporters at a Wellington ECE centre.
– Children were required to sit, stay quiet, and had nothing else to do for at least 20 minutes.