Introduction to the New Zealand Home-based Early Childhood Education Association Inc

The Association exists for the following reasons:

• To enhance the professional status of Home-based Early Childhood Education throughout New Zealand.
• To promote and encourage the development of Home-based Early Childhood Education activities throughout New Zealand.
• To facilitate knowledge, communication and good understanding between those involved in Home-based Early Childhood Education networks.
• To provide a united voice on behalf of the Home-based sector on relevant social and political issues.
• To liaise with Government and other organisations.
• To foster educational and support programmes in all facets of Home-based Early Childhood Education.
• To receive and disseminate relevant information nationally and/or internationally.

Mission Statement

Providing a united voice on behalf of the home-based sector on relevant social and political issues in Aotearoa New Zealand.

History

The New Zealand Home-based Early Childhood Education Association (formerly the Family Day Care Association) was formed in 1987 and is now established throughout the country. Membership is open to educators, caregivers, parents, coordinators, managers and anyone else with an interest in Home-based education and care.

New Zealand is divided geographically into seven wards. The New Zealand Home-based Early Childhood Education Association (NZHECEA) advocates for the promotion of Home-based education and care in New Zealand as a quality early childhood option.

The NZHECEA has membership and representation on the Early Childhood Advisory Committee (ECAC) and the Early Education Federation. The NZHECEA is the only organisation to speak nationally, solely on behalf of the Home-based sector.

The NZHECEA is consulted on policy development from the following government departments: The Ministry of Education, The Ministry of Social Development and the Inland Revenue Department. The Association works with these departments on all issues that effect early childhood education in the Home-based sector.

Guiding Principles

The New Zealand Homebased Early Childhood Education Association exists to support its members to provide quality Home-based Early Childhood Education ensuring its uniqueness is protected.

We believe:

• Children and their families have the right to high quality early childhood education in a chartered and licensed home-based education and care service.
• Education and care in a small group, within a home based setting, provides an optimum environment for children to reach their full potential.
• In a commitment to the dual heritage of Aotearoa New Zealand and the Treaty of Waitangi.
• Knowledge and training provide the key to quality therefore we are committed to promoting that educators have access to appropriate training that is relevant to their work with children.
• Members have the right to participate and have their voices heard at a national level.
• Members have the right to support and guidance to extend and enhance their professional practice.