At Small Sprouts, we know that choosing the right early learning centre is a big decision for whānau. Our FAQs are here to make things simple - covering everything from our opening hours and fees, to what makes our philosophy unique. Whether you’re curious about our Pikopiko room, our kai and meals, or how to join our waitlist, you’ll find clear answers below. And if your question isn’t covered, our team would love to korero, get in touch and we will help.

1. What hours is Small Sprouts open?

We are open 7:00am to 6:00pm, Monday to Friday.
Learn more about our daily rhythm and rooms here: Our Rooms.

2. What age groups do you cater for?

We welcome tamariki from birth to five years.

• Pikopiko Room – under 2s (capacity 10, usually a waitlist).
• Koru Room – 2 to 5 years with a strong school‑ready focus.

See our spaces: Our Rooms.

3. Is there space available in your under 2s room?

Our Pikopiko Room fills quickly and often runs a waitlist. If you are considering enrolling your pēpi, please contact us early.
Join the waitlist: Enrol Now.

4. What curriculum does Small Sprouts follow?

Our teaching is grounded in Te Whāriki and inspired by RIE and Reggio Emilia. This creates a calm, respectful, heart‑led approach to learning.
Read more: About Us.

5. What meals do you provide?

We prepare nutritious, seasonal kai on site for morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea. We cater for allergies and dietary needs and we are a nut‑free centre.
See examples and info: Parent Info.

6. How do you prepare children for school?

For our 4‑year‑olds we build independence, self‑help skills, and confidence. This includes opening lunchboxes, cutting packets safely, making choices, and managing routines.
Learn more about our school‑ready focus: Blog.

7. Do you offer full‑time and part‑time enrolments?

Yes. We offer both full‑time and part‑time enrolments, subject to availability. Under 2s spaces are limited.
Start your enquiry here: Enrol Now.

8. What are your fees?

Fees vary by age and hours. Please contact us for a personalised breakdown.
Get in touch: Contact Us.

9. How do I enrol my child?

You can begin by completing our online form or by calling us. As spaces are limited, please enquire early.
Enrol here: Enrol Now.

10. What makes Small Sprouts different?

• High ratio of qualified kaiako, all on full pay parity.
• Nature‑rich indoor and outdoor environments.
• Heart‑led teaching grounded in Te Whāriki.
• Wholesome, fresh kai prepared daily.
• Family‑owned and locally run on the Hibiscus Coast.

Learn more: About Us.

11. How do you support children’s emotional wellbeing?

Our kaiako prioritise social and emotional learning, guided by He Mapuna te Tamaiti and Te Whāriki. We support tamariki to express feelings, build empathy, and develop resilience.
Our philosophy: About Us.

12. Do you have a transition process for new children?

Yes. We co‑design a calm transition with whānau that can include pre‑visits and shorter sessions so each child settles securely.
Starting info: Parent Info.

13. How do you involve parents and whānau?

Whānau are essential partners. We share learning stories and updates, welcome parent involvement in daily life and events, and invite feedback through policy reviews and regular kōrero.
Stay connected: Parent Info.

14. What qualifications do your teachers have?

Over 80% of our kaiako are fully qualified and all teaching staff are on full pay parity. We also mentor provisionally registered teachers and those in training.
Meet our team and approach: About Us.

15. Do you offer holiday care?

Yes. We are open year‑round except public holidays and a short Christmas and New Year break. Our hours are 7:00am to 6:00pm.
Details here: Our Rooms.