Criterion C104#

he practices of adults providing education and care demonstrate an understanding of children’s learning and development, and knowledge of relevant theories and practice in early childhood education.

Curriculum criteria documentation required

Guidance#

To meet this criterion in a way that is consistent with Te Whāriki, teaching practice, assessment, and curriculum planning should demonstrate that kaiako understand children’s learning and development and have current knowledge of relevant theories and practices that underpin the bicultural framework of Te Whāriki.

Early learning service providers should support kaiako to remain current in their understanding of learning and development, theories, and practices. Regular professional learning and development (formal and informal) should support kaiako to develop their knowledge and practices.

There should also be opportunities for kaiako to engage in professional reading and to discuss and debate ideas and theories, identifying meaningful ways to put their new knowledge into practice.

Internal evaluation is another important way to create opportunities for kaiako to recognise how well their current practices meet the needs of the learners and highlight areas where kaiako may need to develop their practice.

Pages 59 – 62 of Te Whāriki provide further guidance to help kaiako demonstrate an understanding of children’s learning and development, and relevant theories and practice in early childhood.