Kiddywinkles Huapai

28/08/2026

Books, stories and early literacy have been the focus this month in Arohanui Rūma! Early literacy is so important in the first years of life. By sharing stories, singing songs, talking together, and exploring books, our pēpi are building the foundation for communication, language, and a lifelong love of learning. We have loved watching our tamariki explore books in their own ways — turning pages, pointing to pictures, listening, babbling, making sounds and sharing these special moments with their friends and kaiako. These everyday experiences may seem simple, but they help build important early literacy skills while creating a strong sense of connection and enjoyment with books and stories.

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

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...

06/07/2026

What a busy and exciting time we've been having in the Arohanui Rūma! Music and movement have been at the heart of our learning recently, bringing so much joy to our days. Our pēpi have been exploring poi, dancing, clapping, shaking instruments, and moving their bodies to the rhythm of familiar waiata. Through revisiting these experiences each day, tamariki have grown in confidence, eagerly joining in with actions, responding to different tempos, and expressing themselves through movement and sound. It has been wonderful to watch our pēpi observe one another, imitate movements, and delight in sharing these experiences together. Music has become a meaningful way for tamariki to connect with their peers and kaiako, supporting communication, coordination, confidence, and a growing sense of belonging within our learning community.