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Joan Manawatu

Joan

Tiny Nation Educator - Awapuni, Palmerston North

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About Me

I have two adult sons and have 31 years of experience in home-based care, which I have been very passionate about. I enjoy walking and exploring our local area and nature walks with my dogs and the children in my care. In my free time, I enjoy gardening, and arts and crafts.

Places We Like To Visit

 Tiny Nation events
Pop-up playgroups
Nature walks
 Local walkways

My Availability

I am available Monday-Friday, 8am-4.30pm.

My Philosophy

I like to facilitate spontaneous free play, supporting each child's interests whilst also being nurturing and caring, reinforcing togetherness and belonging as part of the group.

When we are on our nature walks and adventures, I encourage learning, exploration and enjoyment of nature, as we are out and about in the environment and being part of our great community.

My Environment

I am based in Awapuni, Palmerston North. I have a purpose-built playroom with extensive resources for both play and learning.

We enjoy two outside areas with lots of play equipment for climbing and swinging, to help develop large motor skills and encourage adventurous group play.

We attend a music group and ‘loose-play’ - run by Tiny Nation. I also help run a playgroup. We attend Tiny Nation-organised events.

We regularly explore the Palmerston North walkways, including Ahimate Reserve, Albert Street, Ruamahanga Crescent and the Esplanade.

My Training

I hold the National Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4). I also have a current first-aid certificate.

Family Testimonials

"Count Our Blessings" TN_BrandIcons-06

I don't even know how to begin writing about all the wonderful qualities of Joan. But I know I can start by saying we count our blessings all the time that we found such a treasured gem. From day one she made us feel welcome and comfortable. I knew the second we met I could trust her with our daughter. We have such a lovely, open and honest relationship. Joan is caring and kind, loving and nurturing, to all the children she has in her care. She has always respected and understood what we have wanted for (our child) with our routine and morals.  Joan is professional and communicates in such a down-to-earth, friendly manner making us feel at home.

Joan has the most amazing home for the children to learn and grow in. Such wonderful toys, books and a never-ending space of imagination and play. A fun and safe outdoor area for adventures. Daily walks and nature. Book reading and dress-ups.  We all love the collection of toys Joan has, with things from my own childhood memories.

(Our child's) development is amazing and Joan has supported her the whole way through with her speech, friendship-forming, sharing and caring skills, independent play and imagination. I really respect Joan and I appreciate her very much. I could not ask for anyone more perfectly suited to our family.

"Forever Grateful" TN_BrandIcons-12

Both my boys have been with Joan since they were 7 months old. I could not have asked for better care for them from such a young age. Joan has exceeded our expectations; she is reliable and always helps where she can. I believe that she has had a big impact on the development of my 2 boys and will forever be grateful for all the attention and extra effort she put into accommodating each of them to the best of her ability.

I would absolutely recommend Joan, especially if you are looking for an intimate and smaller group and environment for your children with lots of entertainment, a magical garden with beautiful dog friends as well.

Contact Joan

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Tiny Nation
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0800 846 9628
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PO Box 8703, Havelock North
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