Frequently Asked Questions
About the centre
What ages of children do you accept?
The Learning Ladder welcomes children from 2 months to 6 years old, supporting little ones from infancy through to their preschool years.
What are your opening hours?
The Learning Ladder is open from 7.30 am - 5.30 pm all year round, except weekends and public holidays.
How many children attend the centre?
The Learning Ladder is licensed for a maximum of 50 children per day, providing a welcoming environment for children to learn, play and develop alongside their peers.
How many teachers do you have?
The Learning Ladder has a team of 13 teachers, providing care, guidance and learning opportunities for children throughout the day.
What is the teacher-to-child ratio?
At The Learning Ladder, the teacher-to-child ratios are approximately one teacher for every 2.3 children under two years old, and one teacher for every five children over two.
These ratios help us provide age-appropriate care, attention and learning experiences.
What makes your centre different from others?
Our centre stands out for its 100% qualified teaching team, excellent teacher-to-child ratios, and huge indoor gym where children can stay active and have fun, even on wet and rainy days.
As an owner-operated centre, we take pride in our personal approach, great staff retention and the consistency this brings to our children and families.
We also provide food, giving families one less thing to organise each day.
What is the atmosphere like at the centre?
The Learning Ladder has a warm, friendly and lively atmosphere.
Children and teachers are actively involved in play, activities and learning experiences throughout the day.
Can we visit before enrolling?
Absolutely! We encourage families to visit before enrolling.
We have an open-door approach and are happy to arrange a visit at a time that suits you.
It's a lovely opportunity to meet the teachers, explore the environment and see whether the centre feels right for your child.
What does a typical day look like?
Every day includes opportunities for play, learning, socialising, rest and exploration.
Our routines provide a familiar rhythm while allowing flexibility for children's individual needs and interests.
For a more detailed look at the daily routine, please click here.
My child's care and wellbeing
How will you help my child settle in?
We understand that starting childcare is a big step for both children and parents.
We take time to help your child feel comfortable and get to know their new surroundings at their own pace.
During your first visit, we'll give your child space to explore while staying close to you.
Our team leader will chat with you about your child's sleep routine, likes, dislikes and anything else that will help us understand them better.
We want to get to know your family, too, because settling in is just as important for parents as it is for children.
From day one, our teachers will get to know your child, discover what interests them and begin building a trusting relationship.
What happens if my child cries when I leave?
It's completely normal for children to feel upset when separating from their parents, especially when they're new to childcare.
We understand that it can be difficult for parents, too.
We'll comfort your child, offer cuddles and reassurance, and help them feel settled with a familiar teacher and an activity they enjoy.
Every child is different, so we'll take our cues from your little one and support them with patience and care.
Will my child have a primary teacher or key person?
We allow children to develop relationships naturally rather than forcing a particular teacher on them.
As your child gets to know the team, we'll pay attention to which teachers they feel most comfortable with and build on those connections.
Having a familiar, trusted teacher helps your child feel secure, supported and confident as they settle into centre life.
How do you comfort children when they are upset?
Every child needs something a little different when they're upset.
Some need a cuddle, others need a little space, and some simply want a caring adult nearby.
Our teachers get to know each child and respond to their individual needs with warmth, patience and reassurance.
We aim to comfort children with the same care and understanding we'd want for our own children.
How do you handle challenging behaviour?
We see challenging behaviour as an opportunity to help children learn and develop their social and emotional skills.
Rather than isolating children, we guide them calmly and help them understand how their actions affect others.
We encourage gentle hands, kind words and respectful interactions, talking with children about how they can treat their friends and how they would like their friends to treat them.
Our approach is supportive, age-appropriate and focused on helping children learn positive ways to express their feelings and needs.
How do you help children develop confidence and independence?
We recognise that every child develops confidence and independence at their own pace.
As we get to know your child and they become comfortable in the environment, we encourage them to try new things and do more for themselves.
Everyday opportunities might include washing their hands, finding their bag, shoes and hat, or finding their place at lunchtime or on the mat.
With gentle encouragement and support when needed, children develop self-help skills and confidence in their own abilities.
How do you make sure my child feels safe and included?
We help children feel included by getting to know them as individuals, using their names, asking questions and paying attention to verbal and non-verbal communication.
Some children enjoy joining group activities straight away, while others need more time or individual support.
We may help a child connect with a buddy or spend one-on-one time with them when they need extra reassurance.
Our goal is for every child to feel noticed, valued and part of the centre community.
How do you communicate with parents about how their child is doing?
We believe good communication between parents and teachers makes a real difference to a child's experience at childcare.
We use Storypark, email and daily conversations at drop-off and pick-up to keep you informed about your child's day, learning and wellbeing.
Our teachers are approachable and happy to answer questions or share information.
You're also welcome to phone the centre or speak with the Centre Manager whenever you'd like an update on how your little one is doing.
Food, sleep and toileting
Do you provide meals and snacks?
Yes! The Learning Ladder provides all meals and snacks, helping make mornings easier for busy families.
What food do you provide?
We offer a variety of meals and snacks, from child-friendly favourites such as pizza and sandwiches to beef lasagne, fried rice, butter chicken and yoghurt.
Our aim is to provide balanced, nutritious food that children enjoy, with a variety of options throughout the day.
Can you cater for allergies or dietary requirements?
Yes, we can accommodate many food allergies and dietary requirements.
If your child has a more complex allergy or food intolerance, please speak with the Centre Manager before enrolment so we can discuss their individual needs and work out a suitable menu.
We want you to feel comfortable knowing that your child's dietary requirements have been discussed and understood.
Do children need to bring their own lunch?
No. All meals and snacks are provided, so you don't need to pack a lunch for your child.
Where do children sleep?
We provide each child who sleeps with their own bed, sheets and blankets.
Beds are cleaned daily, and bedding is washed weekly or more often when needed.
We have separate sleep spaces for children under two and children over two, providing an environment suited to their different needs.
How do you manage different sleep routines?
For children under two, we aim to follow the sleep routine they have at home as closely as possible.
As they become familiar with the centre, their routine may gradually adapt to the rhythm of the day.
We work with you to understand your baby's needs and help them feel settled.
Do you help with toilet training?
Absolutely! We work alongside families to support toilet training when children are ready.
Every child develops at a different pace, so there's no need to rush.
We encourage open conversations with our teaching team about the signs of readiness you're noticing at home.
Together, we can support your child through this milestone in a positive, relaxed and consistent way.
What happens if my child has a toileting accident?
Accidents are a normal part of growing up, especially during toilet training.
We'll handle them calmly and discreetly, helping your child get cleaned up and changed into fresh clothes.
We want children to feel comfortable and reassured, never embarrassed, when accidents happen.
Learning and development
How do you support school readiness?
We help children develop the confidence, social skills and early learning foundations they'll need as they prepare for school.
Our Kura Programme is offered to children aged four and older and includes around 30 minutes of focused activities each day.
Children explore colours, letters, numbers and shapes in a fun, age-appropriate early childhood education environment, while developing the fine motor skills needed for activities such as cutting and holding a pencil.
We also focus on asking and answering questions, following instructions, looking after personal belongings and developing independence in caring for themselves.
Just as importantly, children practise the social and emotional skills that help them feel confident about starting school.
What learning programme do you follow?
Our learning approach draws on Reggio Emilia, Pikler and Magda Gerber.
These approaches inform the way we support children's independence, relationships, curiosity and learning through play.
We value children's individual interests and developmental stages, providing opportunities for them to explore, discover and develop at their own pace.
How much time do children spend playing?
Play is a big part of every child's day.
Children have plenty of opportunities for free play, where they can explore their interests, use their imagination, create and enjoy time with their friends.
We also offer focused activities that support learning and school readiness.
Both free play and guided experiences are important for children's learning, development and wellbeing.
Do children spend time outside every day?
Yes, we aim to get children outside every day when the weather allows.
Outdoor play gives children opportunities to move, explore, enjoy fresh air and discover the world around them.
What activities do you offer?
Our daily activities are guided by the children's interests, curiosity and ideas.
We provide a variety of experiences that encourage children to explore, experiment, create and learn through play.
Everyday favourites include the sandpit, playdough, art, construction, dress-ups, family corner, messy play, puzzles, music and reading.
Activities may change from day to day as we respond to what the children are enjoying and discovering.
How do you support creativity and imagination?
Creativity and imagination is encouraged through open-ended resources, child-led play and opportunities for children to explore their own ideas.
Whether they're painting, building, dressing up, making up stories or experimenting with different materials, children are encouraged to express themselves, solve problems and discover new possibilities.
We provide a safe, supportive environment where there's room to try things out and learn through exploration.
How do you encourage children to become independent?
We give children everyday opportunities to make choices, try things for themselves and work through simple challenges.
Our teachers offer encouragement and guidance when needed, while allowing children the time and space to develop their abilities.
From managing their belongings to washing their hands and taking part in daily routines, these small achievements help build confidence, independence and a sense of responsibility.
How do you track my child's development?
We use Storypark and an Individual Development Plan (IDP) to document and support your child's learning journey.
The IDP focuses on a learning disposition your child is currently developing. Stories, observations and photos added to Storypark can then help show how your child is progressing and building skills in that area over time.
This gives us a way to recognise your child's achievements, identify opportunities for further learning and share their progress with you.
How will I know what my child has been learning?
You can follow your child's learning journey through your Storypark profile, where you'll be able to view their stories, photos and learning progress.
You're also welcome to chat with the teaching team about what your child has been enjoying, discovering and working towards.
We love sharing those little moments and milestones that make your child's learning journey special.
The environment
Do you have an outdoor play area?
Yes! The Learning Ladder has outdoor play areas where children can enjoy fresh air, active play and opportunities to explore their surroundings.
How often do children play outside?
We aim to provide outdoor play every day, weather permitting.
Outdoor experiences give children opportunities to move their bodies, explore nature and enjoy a change of environment throughout the day.
What happens on rainy days?
Our huge indoor gym gives children plenty of room to move, play and burn off energy on wet and rainy days.
There's still lots of fun to be had when the weather isn't cooperating!
Is the centre secure?
Yes. Three doors or gates must be passed through to enter the centre, providing multiple access points between the outside and the centre.
Our team also pays attention to who is coming and going.
How do you manage sun safety?
We take sun safety seriously.
More than 50% of our outdoor area is covered by shade sails, providing shaded spaces for children to play.
Sunblock is provided and applied regularly throughout the summer months.
We also follow a strict no-hat, no-outside rule to help protect children from the sun.
Do children go on outings or excursions?
Yes! We enjoy regular walks to local parks and the supermarket, giving children opportunities to explore their local community and experience the world beyond the centre.
We also plan larger excursions, generally at the beginning of the year when the weather is favourable.
Families are given advance notice of these outings.
Regular local walks are covered by the permissions agreed to during enrolment, and larger excursions may require separate arrangements.
Do you have animals, gardens or nature-based activities?
Yes! We offer opportunities for children to connect with nature and discover the world around them.
We have two resident turtles, Sheldon and Cooper, who add a special touch to the children's environment and provide opportunities to learn about animals and their care.
Teachers and staff
Who will be looking after my child?
Your child will be cared for by a team of experienced, well-trained and fully qualified early childhood teachers who genuinely enjoy working with children.
We value familiar faces and strong relationships, and our excellent staff retention means children can build lasting connections with their teachers.
We know how important it is for children to feel comfortable, recognised and cared for by the people around them.
What qualifications do your teachers have?
We have a 100% qualified teaching team, meeting the requirement for fully qualified teachers.
The majority of our teachers hold a Bachelor of Teaching in Early Childhood Education (ECE).
Our teachers bring their knowledge, experience and understanding of child development to the care and learning they provide each day.
How long have your teachers been with the centre?
We have an experienced, long-standing teaching team.
Most of our teachers have been with us for more than four years, with some team members having been here for between seven and twelve years.
This continuity helps children develop secure relationships with familiar teachers.
Will my child have the same teachers each day?
We aim to provide consistency, so children see familiar teachers throughout the week.
If a regular teacher is unwell or unable to attend, we use a teacher from our regular relieving pool wherever possible.
This helps maintain familiarity and continuity in your child's daily care.
Fees and enrolment
How much are your childcare fees?
Childcare fees depend on your child's age and the number of days and hours you need.
The best way to find out the cost for your family is to contact the centre with your preferred days and hours, and we'll help you understand the fees that apply.
What is included in the fees?
Our fees include all meals, wipes, access to Storypark, a wet bag and additional teaching staff above Ministry of Education minimum ratios.
Are there additional costs?
There is an annual sunblock charge of $20.00.
Larger excursions or special visits may also involve an additional cost.
These are generally occasional, optional activities, and families receive plenty of notice beforehand.
Please speak with the centre if you'd like to clarify any costs before enrolling.
Do you offer WINZ subsidies?
Yes! We can help you understand the available WINZ childcare assistance options and support you with the application process.
Eligibility and the amount of assistance depend on your individual circumstances, so we encourage you to talk with us about your situation.
What days and hours can I enrol my child for?
We aim to accommodate the days and hours that work best for your family, subject to availability and our minimum enrolment requirements.
Our centre is open Monday to Friday, from 7.30 am to 5.30 pm.
Contact us to discuss the days and hours you'd like for your child.
Is there a minimum number of days?
Yes. We require a minimum enrolment of three days per week.
How do I enrol my child?
Getting started is easy.
You can complete the enrolment form on our website or visit the centre to collect a paper copy.
If you're unsure about anything or would like to visit before enrolling, please get in touch.
We're happy to talk you through the process and answer your questions.
How much notice do I need to give if we leave?
We require two weeks' written notice if you decide to finish your child's enrolment.
Please contact the centre if you'd like to discuss your plans or clarify the notice requirements.
Health and safety
What happens if my child becomes sick?
If your child becomes unwell while at the centre, we'll contact you to let you know and discuss the next steps.
We follow our illness policy and procedures, which outline when children need to stay home and when they can return to the centre.
Please read our [Illness Policy and Procedure] for the full details.
What happens if my child is injured?
Your child's wellbeing is our priority.
For minor bumps and scratches, we'll provide appropriate care, which may include an ice pack, plaster, cuddles and arnica cream if you've given permission for its use.
We'll record the incident, and you'll be asked to sign the accident form when you collect your child.
If your child has a bump to the head, the Team Leader or Centre Manager will give you a courtesy call to explain what happened.
If we believe an injury is serious enough to require medical attention, we'll contact you immediately.
When does my child need to stay home?
Children need to stay home if they have symptoms or an illness that means they may be infectious or are not well enough to participate comfortably in the day.
This includes vomiting, diarrhoea and communicable illnesses, as well as situations where they need Pamol or Nurofen to feel well enough to attend.
We follow our infectious illness guidelines to help protect the health and wellbeing of all children and staff.
Please refer to our [Infectious Illnesses Chart] for further information, or contact the centre if you're unsure whether your child should attend.
How do you manage allergies?
We record children's allergies and dietary requirements during enrolment and maintain updated allergy information in the kitchen and office.
Our teachers are informed of children's allergies so they can take the appropriate precautions during meals, activities and daily routines.
Please make sure we know about any allergies or changes to your child's needs so we can keep their information up to date.
What are your emergency procedures?
We practise emergency drills every month so children and teachers can become familiar with the procedures.
If an emergency requires us to evacuate the centre, we'll contact families by phone, text or email to provide information and instructions as appropriate.
Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of the children in our care.
OPENING HOURS
Monday - Friday
7.30 am - 5.30 pm
Open during school holidays
Closed on weekends and New Zealand public holidays
