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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 C308#
The service curriculum provides a language-rich environment that supports children’s learning.
Curriculum criteria documentation required
Guidance#
Language is a vital part of communication and cultural transmission. If children are competent communicators, they are well-placed to enjoy their relationships with others and to be successful learners. Language does not consist only of words, sentences, and stories though: it includes the language of images, art, dance, drama, mathematics, technology, movement, rhythm, print and music.
The ‘languages’ used in the environment will depend on the make-up of the children and families that attend, and the community that the service serves – for example a language-rich environment in an infant and toddler setting may look, feel and sound different from a setting for older children.
In early childhood services in Aotearoa New Zealand, it is important that educators understand the significance of te reo Māori and that it is heard, seen and used throughout the day, integrated throughout the service curriculum.
All children will enter an early childhood service with a first language. Sometimes this language is different to the language or languages used in the centre. It is important that educators work in collaboration with the parents/whānau of the child to ensure that the child’s first language is integrated into the service curriculum in real and meaningful ways.
