23/07/2026
💚 Learning Priority Four – Auahatanga
Creativity in Thinking, Decision Making & the Arts
At First Years Learning Centre, we believe every child is born creative.
One of our six Learning Priorities is Auahatanga - nurturing children's creativity through imagination, curiosity, problem-solving, decision-making and opportunities for self-expression.
Creativity isn't just about painting pictures or making crafts. It is about wondering, exploring, asking questions, thinking differently and discovering new ways to solve problems.
Children use creativity every day as they build with blocks, invent stories, explore nature, negotiate with friends, experiment with materials and express themselves through music, movement, dramatic play and art.
By providing open-ended experiences, children learn there isn't always one "right" answer. They develop confidence to take risks, share ideas and think creatively in ways that will benefit them throughout their lives.
You might see children:
🌿 Asking questions and wondering "What if...?"
🌿 Building, designing and creating with open-ended materials
🌿 Expressing ideas through art, music, dance and storytelling
🌿 Solving problems in different ways
🌿 Making choices and sharing their thinking
🌿 Using their imagination during play
🌿 Trying new ideas and learning from mistakes
These everyday experiences help children become curious, innovative and adaptable thinkers who are confident to explore the world around them.
At First Years, Auahatanga is woven throughout our curriculum because we know that creativity is at the heart of learning. It empowers children to think critically, communicate their ideas, embrace challenges and discover their unique strengths.
💚 He tamaiti, he taonga – Every child is a treasure.