Willowsong Tairāwhiti Playgroup offers a gentle, nurturing space for tamariki aged 0–6 years and their whānau to come together in a spirit of warmth, rhythm, and community. Rooted in Steiner early childhood principles, our playgroup is a home-like environment where children can explore freely and safely, held within the steady, predictable rhythm of each session. Our mornings flow with the natural pace of the young child, simple songs, finger rhymes, shared baking, outdoor play, and seasonal crafts form the heart of our time together. Through imitation, free play, and rich sensory experiences, tamariki are supported to develop trust in themselves, in others, and in the world around them. For parents and caregivers, Willowsong’s playgroup offers not only a space of support and connection, but an introduction to the values of Steiner education, slow, conscious parenting, reverence for childhood, and creating an environment that nourishes the senses and the soul. Together, we create a living bridge between home life and the wider world,  planting seeds of community, belonging, and joyful learning from the very beginning.

Our environment is tailored to children from birth to 7 years old with a low key, home-like  atmosphere and an overall tone of unhurried peace.

Parents are able to relax and share the journey with other parents while children have fun and learn social skills in an age appropriate, unpressured environment. We aim to foster the child's imagination through free play with beautiful Waldorf resources and the natural outdoor world. Through play, games, singing, storytelling and sharing food in a calm atmosphere, the children gradually learn the vital skills to prepare them for kindergarten, school and life.

The rhythm of the morning

9.30	We begin the morning with free indoor and outdoor play

9.45	Bread dough available for the children 

10.15	Circle time

10.45	Morning Tea

11.00 	Free indoor and outdoor play