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Effective 20 April 2026, the numbering of the curriculum criteria has changed. There have been no changes to the curriculum criteria wording or associated guidance.
Criterion C204#
The practices of educators and coordinators 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 educators and coordinators 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 educators and coordinators to remain current in their understanding of learning and development, theories, and practices. Regular professional learning and development (formal and informal) should support educators and coordinators to develop their knowledge and practices.
There should also be opportunities for educators and coordinators 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 educators and coordinators to recognise how well their current practices meet the needs of the learners and highlight areas where educators and coordinators may need to develop their practice.
Pages 59 – 62 of Te Whāriki provide more guidance to help educators and coordinators demonstrate an understanding of children’s learning and development, and relevant theories and practice in early childhood.
