Other information and resources

The early childhood education sector

Legislation and Licensing

All ECE services are regulated by the Ministry of Education to ensure consistent provision of quality early childhood education.

The majority of centre-based services, home-based services and hospital-based services operate under the Education (Early Childhood Services) Regulations 2008.

These regulations set out requirements such as teacher qualifications and child/teacher ratios. Services must also meet other criteria such as health and safety requirements in order to be licensed to operate by the Ministry of Education and to receive Government funding.

Playgroups operate under their own separate regulations called the Education (Playgroups) Regulations 2008. As well as complying with these regulatoins, playgroups must also meet certain criteria to be certified by the Ministry of Education and be eligible for Government funding.

You can view legislation relating to early childhood education services or buy copies from a bookshop stocking government publications.

Your rights – what you can expect from your service

Every ECE service is legally required to ensure your child is safe, well-nurtured and cared for in an environment that supports their learning and personal development needs.

ECE services must give parents, families and whānau opportunities to be involved in decision making concerning their child and their child’s progress and needs. The service must:

• encourage you to spend time at the service
• discuss concerns and allow you to take part in decisions about your child
• regularly talk to you about your child’s progress, interests, abilities and areas for development
• give you information about your child, the service’s operation and Education Review Office reports.

You can see more detailed information about the legal rights and responsibilities of ECE services at the Education Review Office website.

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Parent support programmes and organisations

There are several community-based programmes and organisations that offer support, advice and guidance for parents of young children. Examples include Parents as First Teachers (PAFT), Family Start, Strategies with Kids (SKIP) and Home interaction programme for parents and youngsters (HIPPY).

To find out about these and other programmes in your area, visit the Family and Community Services section of the Ministry of Social Development website.