Early Childhood Research
Reading, vocabulary, and the 'million-word gap'
How story telling supports brain development, encourages imagination and teaches children about language and emotions.
Important research into childhood brain development
How research in children’s brain development may improve executive function and long term success.
Research shows Kiwi kids naturally thrive during lockdown
While adults struggled during lockdown a new report has shown many kids thrived while learning from home.
Research into the parental leave taken by Kiwi mums
Research from the Growing up in NZ study identified the ways Kiwi mums are using parental leave and their preferences in terms of how it can be accessed.
How quality ECE may help vulnerable children prepare for school
High quality early learning settings may counteract some of the effects of adverse childhood experiences, such as divorce or substance abuse.
Teaching self-regulation in early childhood education
How early educators support children to develop resilience and self regulation skills.
Does a positive childhood protect kids from mental illness?
Research shows that a happy personality doesn’t necessarily safeguard children against mental health problems in later life.
Highlights from the Early Childhood Education Census 2020
Results from the ECE census offer interesting insights into the state of play in NZ’s early education sector, read our summary this week.
Resources to support your child’s early literacy success
How the evidence based Better Start Literacy Approach can support your child’s early efforts at reading, writing and oral language development.
New research into early childhood education
New findings from the Growing Up In NZ study describe a range of benefits for children in attending early childhood education, but explains they may be more susceptible to illness.
The benefits of ‘Dad play’ in a child’s first years
Research from from Cambridge University, shows father-child play from an early age can help children manage behavioural problems, including aggression.
International approaches to lockdown in early childhood settings
International approaches to lockdown in early childhood settings.
The significant rise in preschoolers using Te Reo Māori
New research has demonstrated greater knowledge and use of Te Reo Maori among preschool-aged children. This article looks at the research, explains why it is important and how parents can boost their child’s Te Reo skills.
How parents can support young children’s risky play
Risky play at home and how you can support your child to safely leave their comfort zone.
The importance of good sleep at child care and beyond
The importance of good sleep at child care and beyond.
How to get on the same wavelength as your infant
Research has shown that the brain waves of babies and their parents synch up during play time helping to establish bonds between children and their care givers.
How music-making benefits children
The developmental benefits of making music at home and simple cost effective ideas for boosting musical experiences.
Findings from the Early Childhood Education Census 2019
Key findings from the 2019 ECE census around attendance, service numbers, occupancy rates, adult to child ratios, teaching staff, language immersion and waiting times.
How early intervention can support children with autism
Although autism is usually diagnosed when a child is two or older, some youngsters exhibit signs of this condition well before their official diagnosis.
Surprising new research on school choice and academic achievement
Considerations when choosing the right school for your child.
Sleep time and TV time new findings
The link between screen time and disrupted sleep among children and how to reduce the impacts of this issue.
Epigenetics - How children's experiences shape their genes
Children benefit from supportive relationships and quality early learning, and according to an emerging field of scientific research, these early experiences can actually change youngsters' genes.
New research around storytelling and rhythmic gestures
When it comes to improving children's oral skills, it seems there is much to be gained from reading with your eyes and talking with your hands.