Playgroups
- are run by parents and cater for groups of children from birth to school age and their parents
- typically meet for 1 to 5 sessions each week to provide play, social and learning opportunities for children
- can be certificated and may be less formal than other kinds of ECE services.
Pasifika playgroups
In addition to the above playgroup requirements, Pasifika playgroups focus on developing and maintaining Pasifika languages and cultures.
Ngā puna kōhungahunga
In addition to the above playgroup requirements, Māori language and tikanga is reflected in the structure and content of the playgroup sessions.
Playcentres
- are collectively supervised and managed by parents for children from birth to school age
- have a strong focus on parent education as well as children’s learning
- are supported by Playcentre Associations around the country.
Ngā kōhanga reo
- cater for children from birth to school age in a Māori language and tikanga Māori environment
- parents and whānau manage and operate the kōhanga reo with the support and guidance of Te Kōhanga Reo National Trust
- some kōhanga reo are also teacher-led services with trained kaiako.