Page 14 - Riverstones Room

and what they can do for themselves helps them to persist with difficulty
and work through challenges. Developing empathy for others leads
children to understanding how their actions affect others and their
environment. Adults teach children to respect and care for the world
around them. Toddlers and young children are confident and secure
within themselves and develop a strong sense of cultural identity where
they know their culture is valued.
Physical Development - Aho Matua
Toddlers and young children develop physically, refining their motor skills
and reaching developmental milestones at their own pace. They develop
control of their bodies and gain confidence within themselves to take
calculated risks and actively explore their environment. Developing
spatial awareness through their physical development allows them to
understand personal space and how to navigate through their
surroundings. All these aspects of physical development create the
foundation for children to learn and have the confidence to explore and
try new things throughout their life.
Exploration/Discovery - Whakatomene
Toddlers and young children are given the opportunity to explore different
textures and create their own working theories. These working theories
will help children to make sense of the world around them. Sensory
exploration allows children to naturally use scientific processes while they
play, create and explore. Toddlers and young children are curious and are
given the opportunity to ask questions and explore their environment.
Their curiosity leads them to be active explorers who are able to think
critically and understand the world around them Toddlers and young
children learn to work with and alongside their peers, developing
relationships and understanding the views and opinions of others.
Communication - Mana Reo
Toddlers and young children develop communication skills through
meaningful interactions. Communication is an important part of a childs
life and development. They learn how to understand both verbal and
non-verbal cues from those around them. Toddlers and young children
develop communication skills through meaningful interactions where
they have a reason and need to communicate with others. They are
encouraged to communicate with others both verbally and non-verbally
and are given the opportunity to experience symbols and stories from
their own as well as other cultures. Toddlers and young children are
encouraged to develop imagination and creative expression through
materials, music, movement and other sensory resources.