I'm originally from South Africa, I am a mum to two children. I have been in New Zealand and a home-based educator since 2017. I have been a preschool dance teacher, an au pair and a swimming teacher. I have a genuine passion for working with children.
I am available Monday-Friday, 7.30am-5pm.
I currently have space Monday-Thursday, for an under or over-2-year-old.
I firmly believe that children learn and develop to their full potential, both emotionally and physically when their individual needs are met. I believe play is a creative and valid approach to learning, and with a balance of play and socialisation, it plays a significant role in laying the foundations for successful learning. Creating a loving, nurturing environment gives children a sense of belonging and the ability to develop empathy. I believe in love!
I live in Mount Maunganui, Tauranga.
We enjoy hands-on activities based on individual interests. My home is a safe place for children to learn. I value messy play and being creative. We get out into nature to explore and experiment, to benefit from fresh air, connect with the outdoors and jump in puddles!
We enjoy arts and crafts, play dough, puzzles, reading books, bikes and trikes, theme days, gardening, the sand pit, water play, painting and more!
I hold the National Certificate in Early Childhood (Level 4) and I hold a current first-aid certificate. I have also completed a number of other relevant professional development courses including child protection, mindfulness, power of play, first 1000 days, behaviour has meaning, talk to me, growing in connection, power to protect, sleep like a baby and power of relationships.
Lana, you have given children such a wonderful boost to their education journey - there's 'joy' in the word 'journey'! As they move to the next stage, they are so better prepared to take on challenges and stretch themselves because they have been shown this is possible. Your legacy will continue long after they have left formal education and it's something (our granddaughter) and others will carry and use for the rest of their lives. Be proud of what you are imparting to these little ones. I have the greatest admiration for what you are doing. This is possibly the most long-distance appreciation you have ever had - feel free to quote it to anyone who is asking for your inspiring services. Grandad Stuart (Scotland).