Goodstart Early Learning New Gisborne

Our two girls have attended Goodstart since we arrived in the area in 2020. In light of recent news about childcare centres, we as a family had a serious talk about safety, and raised the bar on what's acceptable for our children when they're away from us in any capacity. As a mum of three, I'm often asked for advice from friends with young kids about how to choose the right centre, and I provide this checklist based on our overwhelmingly positive ongoing experience at Goodstart: Does the centre have child safety - emotional, physical and psychological - front of mind in every area of their day-to-day operations? Is there two-way visibility in all children's toilets/nappy changing areas? Do they have double security at reception with door codes and electronic sign ins? Even close family members must be pre-authorised by parents, and provide ID to staff. Is there a line-of-sight strategy plan in the nursery ie. a map used to ensure every bub is within eyesight and near-reach of an educator at all times? Are breaks covered appropriately so the staff to child ratio remains consistent? Goodstart is militant about this. Staff must have first aid training by law, but is there one educator in the room who appears capable of handling ANY emergency? That person who stands out with 'head nurse' energy, someone you know you can trust with your child's life? Allergies, seizures and falls can happen, and if you ever get that call, you want it to be from someone who knows exactly how to handle it. Does it appear to be a positive workplace environment where all staff are treated with respect and supported on their own pathways? Are the educators warm, interested and delighted by kids being kids? Sarah heard and empathised with recent concerns from the community, and has kept parents up to date with reassurance about internal policies and frameworks, including a thoughtful new policy about electronic devices in the centre. She takes her responsibility seriously. A welcoming atmosphere, positive attitudes to day-to-day problem solving, thoughtful and nurturing transition plans for kids moving into new rooms, nutritious and interesting food, safe and clean play areas, adventurous outdoor spaces, restful nap zones, commitment to child development, engaging activities and toys, and ongoing communication with parents are all essential 'musts' for any centre, and the bare minimum we should expect. Goodstart New Gisborne goes above and beyond on all these fronts. Extra cuteness value is added in the form of dress up days, theme weeks, birthday cakes, hand-made presents for parents, professional photo days, and end of year celebrations. Additionally, the staff are all wonderfully kind and friendly people, always greeting us with a smile and words of encouragement for a happy day ahead for everyone. We feel good about using Goodstart, and we're grateful it has always been an incredibly safe space that we've never second guessed. Sarah is setting an extremely high standard for childcare, and our busy working family owes a huge thanks to her fabulous, committed team.