Kindergarten group raises concerns over proposed early childhood regulation changes in New Zealand

A review of early childhood regulations in New Zealand suggests rewriting or eliminating 75% of the current licensing criteria. While many early childhood groups support the changes, Kindergartens Aotearoa fears this will lower standards and compromise child safety. Amanda Coulston from Kindergartens Aotearoa criticized the review for prioritizing business needs over children's welfare. She expressed concern that relaxing staff qualification requirements could undermine education quality and safety. In contrast, the Early Childhood Council and other organizations welcomed the review, arguing that it could reduce excessive regulations and improve staffing flexibility. They emphasized the importance of involving the sector in the regulatory changes.