- 163 Fifteenth Avenue, Tauranga 3112
- (07) 577 0458
At Lilliput Preschool Tauranga, our preschool area is a nurturing space for tamariki aged two to six. Relationships, play, and learning come together in a calm, home-like environment where every child is valued, heard, and encouraged to thrive.
Our preschool area continues the same thoughtful philosophy as our pēpi space. Tamariki are guided by kindness, aroha, and respect as they grow their independence, explore new ideas, and develop at their own pace. Our flexible programme honours the individuality of each child while offering a safe structure where they can flourish.
Tamariki are supported to lead their own learning through play and real-life experiences. Whether they are planting in the garden, baking kai, or caring for the worm farm, every moment at Lilliput offers connection, learning, and joy. Our outdoor environment also includes access to the adjacent school field, giving tamariki room to move, explore, and build confidence in nature.
Strong relationships are central to everything we do. Each child is supported by a hoa ako (learning partner) who becomes emotionally attuned to their needs, cues, and learning style. These teachers are responsible for guiding routines such as meals, nappy changes, toilet training, rest, and settling.
We understand that tamariki may form bonds with other kaiako too. When this happens, we honour those connections and ensure consistent, trusted care. Whānau are active partners in every stage of the journey, and we take the time to build trust, communicate openly, and understand your goals for your tamaiti.
Our preschool is led by a team of highly trained, passionate kaiako who are committed to providing the best possible care and education.
Our kaiako are also lifelong learners. They regularly reflect on their practice, stay current with early childhood research, and work together to evolve our programme in meaningful ways. At Lilliput, our team genuinely love what they do, and it shows in the quality of relationships and learning outcomes.
Guided by Te Whāriki, our play-based curriculum supports tamariki to build confidence, creativity, and resilience. Every learning opportunity is grounded in real-world experiences, rich conversations, and meaningful interactions.
Language development is a key focus throughout the preschool day. Kaiako naturally weave rich, descriptive language into all experiences, supporting tamariki to become strong communicators and critical thinkers. Through play, children explore science, maths, literacy, social skills, problem-solving, and emotional regulation in authentic ways.
When tamariki transition from our pēpi space or start preschool for the first time, we take a gentle, child-led approach. Visits are introduced slowly and supported by familiar kaiako, building trust and confidence at every step.
For tamariki who nap during the day, we offer a peaceful sleep room with calming music and individual sleep spaces. Teachers follow your routines from home and provide cuddly, consistent care until your tamaiti drifts off to sleep. They are then physically checked every 5 to 10 minutes.
Each day, tamariki help prepare their own snacks, learning life skills through baking, preparing kai, and collaborating with their peers. These shared routines support confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging.
Every tamaiti has a personal portfolio that captures their learning journey through stories, photos, and reflections. These are available at any time to take home and share with whānau. We also use an online platform so extended family can stay connected, leave comments, and celebrate milestones from afar.
Daily communication is a priority for us. We welcome conversations with whānau at drop-off and pick-up, and our kaiako are always happy to discuss your child’s development or any needs throughout the day.
