The ECE curriculum seeks to empower and develop children holistically, helping them to make new links and develop relationships while discovering different ways of seeing the world. Every licensed early childhood education service in New Zealand uses this framework as the basis for their programmes
Strands and Associated Goals
STRAND 1: WELL-BEING – MANA ATUA
The health and wellbeing of the child is protected and nurtured.
GOALS:
Children have an environment where their health is promoted; their emotional wellbeing is nurtured; and they are kept safe from harm.
STRAND 2: BELONGING – MANA WHENUA
Children and their families feel a sense of belonging.
GOALS:
Children and their families experience a connection with the wider world that is affirmed and extended; they know they have a place; they feel comfortable with the routines, customs, and regular events; and they know the limits and boundaries of acceptable behaviour.
STRAND 3: CONTRIBUTION – MANA TANGATA
Every child has equal opportunities to learn, and every contribution is valued.
GOALS:
Children experience equal opportunities, irrespective of gender, ability, age, ethnicity, or background; they are affirmed as individuals; and they are encouraged to learn individually and in social groups.
STRAND 4: COMMUNICATION – MANA REO
The languages and symbols of all cultures are protected and promoted.
GOALS:
Children are able to develop non-verbal communication skills for a range of purposes; they develop verbal communication skills for a variety of purposes; they experience the stories and symbols of their own and other cultures; and they discover and develop different ways to be creative and expressive.
STRAND 5: EXPLORATION – MANA AOTUROA
The child learns through active exploration of the environment.
GOALS:
Children’s play is valued as meaningful learning and the importance of spontaneous play is recognised; they gain in control and confidence of their bodies; they learn strategies for active exploration, thinking, and reasoning; and they develop working theories for making sense of the natural, social, physical, and material worlds.
