Media Release

Playcentre has huge impact on Early Childhood Community

2 October 2007

The 2007 Early Childhood Convention, held in Rotorua last week, demonstrated the huge impact Playcentre has had on early childhood education in New Zealand. When participants were asked to stand if they were past or present members of Playcentre, nearly half of the estimated 1600 participants rose to their feet. The sheer number of those standing spoke volumes for the multi levelled contribution by Playcentre and its people to the early childhood sector.

This is a staggering contribution to early childhood, considering statistics indicate 8% of young children are currently enrolled in a Playcentre. It demonstrates that Playcentre punches far above its weight in providing education for New Zealand children.

“This shows what we have long believed – many early childhood teachers and academics first became interested through the education they got with their children at Playcentre” said Marion Pilkington, Playcentre Federation President. “A Playcentre education is for parents as well as children, and our research shows that parents who have been involved with Playcentre go on to fill many important social and volunteer roles.”

“The contribution of the Playcentre movement in New Zealand is significant and clear. It is time for government policy makers to be reflecting this with substantial policy improvements for Playcentre within the early childhood sector. Parents can, and do, make a difference.”

The early childhood convention is held every four years and comprises current early childhood educators, teacher educators, researchers and government officials. It is believed to be the largest gathering dedicated to early childhood education in the southern hemisphere, and possibly the world. The convention took place over six days in the last week of September and highlighted a wide range of research and practical workshops, many led by former Playcentre members.

ENDS

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