Tanvi Singh's inspiring learning journey

Tanvi Singh's inspiring learning journey

When Tanvi joined Barnardos’ Pakuranga Centre in Auckland in February 2022 at the age of two, her parents were initially hesitant about early childhood education due to cultural norms. In the Samoan culture, families traditionally care for their children themselves. Tanvi arrived with no spoken language, communicating through gestures and sounds, often demonstrating biting behaviour.

During several of the centre’s staff hui, they discussed how they could redirect Tanvi’s biting and physical harm towards other children into more positive behaviour. Every day during drop-off and pick-up time, kaiako would spend time sharing information with her aiga (family). They engaged in open and meaningful discussions, respecting and embracing the richness of Samoan culture.

Today, at four years old, Tanvi has blossomed into a well-rounded child. She now effectively uses words to express her emotions. The biting behaviour is a thing of the past, thanks to the combined efforts of her aiga and the Barnardos team.

Tanvi's mother, Ianeta, has been a dedicated supporter of the work done to enhance Tanvi's learning journey. At the centre, they strive to empower families by involving them in activity planning and seeking their input for continuous improvement. Their ultimate goal is to foster parent leadership and create a collaborative learning environment.

By implementing strategies from key readings and internal evaluations, such as Tapasa and He Māpuna te Tamaiti, they have refined a proactive and supportive setting for Tanvi's growth and development, setting her up to thrive out of the centre.