Why did you become a KidStart Caregiver?
In Sri Lanka I worked as a personnel manager for many years, but I’ve always had a passion for working with children, so I decided to study for a Montessori Preschool and Primary Diploma.

That background led me to look for opportunities to work with children in New Zealand. My dream came true with the opportunity to work for KidStart, running home-based care and learning for children in my own home.

What do you like about KidStart?
I like the way KidStart is structured and the support and training offered. The learning programme is based on Te Whariki, the national early childhood curriculum and I get support with this from my Visiting Teacher, who comes to see us regularly. KidStart also provides nursery equipment if needed. We keep a Record of Care and Learning for each child, to show how each child is developing and learning. It’s a wonderful record of their life in these early days.

I go to regular training workshops. We have to attend at least three a year to meet our practice certificate requirements, but last year I went to five because they were so interesting. I learn lots and apply it to my work with the children.

Every week I take the children to the local KidStart playgroup, so they can mix with other children. The Visiting Teachers also come to the playgroups. They’re well organised. It’s a good opportunity to meet other Caregivers and share ideas.

Health and safety is another area covered by KidStart. Once every three months we go through earthquake and fire drills. Equipment is regularly checked to make sure it meets safety requirements. And as a Caregiver, I have to have a Practical First Aid Certificate, which includes CPR.

What do children enjoy most at your place?
The children love to walk around my garden with me collecting and talking about leaves, bark and flowers; and observing the bugs, butterflies and birds. It’s a great learning opportunity. I went to a recent science workshop for KidStart Caregivers, and I came away with a vast number of ideas that I have since put into practice with the children. They also like to play with water and go on ‘shopping expeditions’ on the ride-ons. And they enjoy listening to stories, painting, playing with lego and puzzles and singing and dancing

What makes your day as a Caregiver a brilliant/special one?
The children progressing with their learning and achieving their goals - that makes my day. When I have a special comment to tell the parents about each of the children at the end of the day, that also makes my day brilliant.

Share a single ‘Magic Moment’ since you’ve been a KidStart Caregiver.
After we learn a new song, each of the children enjoys having a turn to perform in front of the others. It is wonderful to see the others keen to sit and listen while one child performs. It is magic.

Is there a cultural practice or celebration you enjoy sharing with the children?
We enjoy singing and dancing Maori, English and Sri Lankan songs.

Read another interview, with KidStart Caregiver Nuala