What our Cromwell tamariki have been exploring

Our Cromwell Early Learning centre has had a lively few months filled with worms, monsters, and meaningful learning. Here is a snapshot of what our tamariki have been up to. 

Becoming kaitiaki (guardians) of our new worm farm
The arrival of our worm farm sparked lots of excitement. Tamariki have been learning how to care for the worms, feeding them food scraps from kai times, and checking what they can eat. They are beginning to understand how the worms will help our garden grow, building early foundations in kaitiakitanga, (looking after and protecting the environment) and caring for Papatūānuku (nurturing the land and all living things as our Earth mother).

Exploring emotions with The Colour Monster 
Tamariki have enjoyed using colours to represent feelings, helping them understand that emotions can be complex and change throughout the day. This learning strengthens emotional awareness and encourages tamariki to express themselves with confidence and empathy.

Fairy gardens, potions, and play at the street party 
Over Labour weekend, our Cromwell team joined the community street party with a magical fairy themed space. Tamariki and whānau created fairy gardens, mixed glittery potions, and enjoyed simple games together. It was a joyful celebration of imagination, belonging, and ako as families learned and played side by side.

Warm connections at our Open Day 
During our centre open day, tamariki enjoyed games, chalk art, face painting, and even a visit from Mr Whippy. Inside, kaiako showcased inspiring learning experiences that highlighted the richness of our environment and the strong sense of whanaungatanga that thrives at Cromwell.

Celebrating kotahitanga through kapa haka 
Our tamariki proudly took part in the Cromwell Kāhui Ako Kapa Haka Night, performing alongside learners from across the community. It was a powerful celebration of identity, culture, and unity, with tamariki showing confidence and pride on stage.

Little Donuts in action 
We’ve kickstarted the Little Donuts soccer programme again, giving tamariki the chance to build ball skills, teamwork, balance, and listening. Each session is full of energy and excitement as they practise new movements and enjoy playing together.

Learning woven through every experience
Across all of these moments, tamariki are strengthening skills connected to Te Whāriki, including emotional understanding, communication, kaitiakitanga, belonging, and confident exploration. Each experience reflects the richness of learning that happens every day at Cromwell Early Learning Centre. 

We are so proud of everything our Cromwell tamariki have been discovering. Keep an eye out for our next update as the learning journey continues.