Philosophy, Ideas and Ideals
what we believe

​I (Kate Lawes, owner and operator) choose to take care of children as my job for a myriad of reasons ... foremost, because I believe in the precious and magical time that is childhood and find great joy in being part of nourishing their growth and development. The well being of your children is at the heart of my business and service. I believe in:
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  • Modelling: Children learn through imitation, therefore I strive to be a role model worthy or this imitation.
  • Rhythm: Daily, weekly and yearly rhythm, support a child's life, learning and sense of security (rhythm, repetition, regularity are fostered through music & song, movement games, practical activities i.e. sewing, bread-making, painting, gardening and a consistent routine balancing rest and activity) 
  • Play: play is children's work (I provide a balance between playing out their own initiative and working together as a group guided by the teacher/caregiver) 
  • Quality toys: our toys are chosen for their open ended uses, possibilities and fantasy. ​Our toys are often handmade (sometimes by ourselves), good quality natural materials for a child’s developing senses
  • Nature: time out of doors everyday regardless of the weather.
  • ​Seasonal celebrations: taking time to mark important moments of the year with seasonal celebrations and rituals. ​
  • Beauty: children deserve spaces that are beautiful, orderly, clean and as free from toxic substances as possible
  • Connection to home: mutual support creates a bridge between home and playschool through various means of communication & gatherings.
  • Environment:  a well planned and supplied indoor environment and a safe outdoor environment can provide a child with all the opportunities needed for a child to thrive and develop mentally, physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.
  • ​Song & story: the power of singing, working with natural materials, stories and humour.
  • Art & crafts: in allowing time for children to create art and introducing the joy of hand work.
  • Woodworking: children gain a wide variety of skills and experiences through regular access to our travelling woodwork shop.  A recent study highlights the value of woodwork in early education.    
  • Community: we create community connection by enjoying places, spaces and the people that enrich them
  • Wellbeing: making a healthy environment not only for the children but the educators that care for your children.
INCLUSION STATEMENT
At Tree of Life we value diversity in our world.  We are committed to creating an environment that embraces and celebrates people of all cultures, races, genders, and abilities. We strive to create a community that is safe and nurturing for all children and families. Our intention is to consciously work on transcending stereotypes and prejudices.  We commit to continuously improve the ways in which our program incorporates greater diversity and overcomes barriers to inclusion. Deconstructing racial and gender narratives in ourselves and in our community is complex and challenging work, but it is a journey we are willing and eager to be on.