Kiddywinkles

23/08/2026

Your child does not have to know how to read before starting school.

What matters more may surprise you.

Stephen Grady, principal of Matua Ngaru School, says confidence, communication, independence and social skills give children the foundation they need to begin school ready to learn.

Can they carry and unpack their own bag?

Can they open their own food?

Can they communicate with unfamiliar adults and join in with other children?

These everyday skills may matter more on their first day than already knowing their ABCs.

Allen Court sat down with Stephen for an honest conversation about what school readiness really looks like, the role early learning plays and how parents, early learning centres and primary schools can make that transition easier.

If your child is getting closer to school age, this is well worth eight minutes of your time.

Watch the full conversation here:

https://youtu.be/N-GAfjbBcAM

What is the one skill you most want your child to have before their first day of school?

What does a child really need before their first day of primary sch...

14/08/2026

It was fantastic to welcome psychologist Sara Chatwin to Kiddywinkles yesterday.
Sara and I have had some great conversations through Building Kids for Greatness about raising confident, resilient children — so it was special to have her visit and see firsthand what we’re building at Kiddywinkles.
We share a strong belief that the early years aren’t just about preparing children for school. They’re about helping children develop the confidence, resilience and social skills that become foundations for life.
Thanks for visiting, Sara — always great talking kids, parenting and what really helps our little people thrive.

05/08/2026

Speaking to 450 delegates at the Early Childhood Conference about pressure points Teachers face. Joined by Sue Kurtovich, Michelle Bosch with interviewer Jehan Casinader

03/08/2026

Sometimes the best thing you can give your child is simply ten minutes of your full attention.

Put your phone down, let your child choose the game and resist the urge to teach, correct or take over. Just step into their world and enjoy being there with them.

Children do not always need hours of entertainment or an elaborate activity. Ten minutes of child led play can completely change the mood at home.

Try it tonight. What did your child choose?

Only got ten minutes? That may be all it takes to change the mood a...

31/07/2026

I join Michelle Bosch and Sue Kurtovich on stage at the Early Childhood Conference to share leadership skills for operating Childcare Centres to ensure children get the very best start.

30/07/2026

When Your Child Says “I’m Bored”… Try This!

Turn cushions, chairs, tape, socks and a laundry basket into a simple obstacle course at home. It gets children moving, thinking and laughing, without buying another expensive toy.

Subscribe to Kiddywinkles for practical parenting tips and easy activities that actually work.

Turn cushions, chairs, tape, socks and a laundry basket into a simp...

20/07/2026

We have just launched our own Kiddywinkles YouTube channel. This is for people everywhere, not just for our parents. Filled with celebrity podcasts, ask Allen information PLUS regular parenting snippets.Please click the link below to subscribe:
YouTube.com/

16/07/2026

A tribute to Sir Sam Neill, remembering a remarkable actor, a proud...

16/07/2026

Farewell, Sir Sam Neill.

For generations of us, he was more than a familiar face on screen. He was part of the films that filled our childhoods, entertained our families and showed the world just how far a quiet, talented New Zealander could go.

Behind the international success was a man remembered for his warmth, humility, humour and unmistakable Kiwi spirit. Sir Sam made New Zealand proud, and the characters and stories he gave us will continue to be shared with generations to come.

In this short tribute, Allen reflects on the life and legacy of one of New Zealand’s most loved actors.

Our thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone who knew and loved him.

Rest in peace, Sir Sam. Thank you for the memories.

A tribute to Sir Sam Neill, remembering a remarkable actor, a proud...

14/07/2026

Kia ora tamariki and whānau,

What a beautiful Matariki celebration we shared together in the Arohanui room. ✨

Tamariki and whānau enjoyed exploring Matariki experiences, sharing stories, and learning about remembering the past, celebrating the present, and looking forward to the future.

We finished our celebration by sharing warm kai together, with lots of smiles, conversations, and connection.

Thank you to our whānau for being part of this special time.

Ngā mihi mahana