Growing Tōtara Kids is professional development presented by Elise Walton and Erin Rush. Elise has over 10 years teaching experience in ECE, almost 6 years experience as a parent to an inquisitive boy and a working understanding of the challenges Kaiako and Educators are facing when working with to nurture strong foundations for formal learning and life. Erin has grown up in a family where mental health was frequently and openly discussed, has over 10 years teaching experience and is a Mum to a fun, full of energy toddler!

This year we have had a huge response to our Te Kete Rangimārie Workshop. This workshop is a positive guidance tool for educators, kaiako and parents. Based on the advice and strategies presented in He Mapuna Te Tamaiti and Kowhiti Whakapae. This tool is most effective when a whole team are involved or on board. We want to make sure our strategy is optimized. We can support your whole team by running private PDs that can be more specific to your Centre and philosophy. In August 2026 we have been asked to present at the ECC Conference.

We now have a Homebased Education version of our Te Kete Rangimārie Workshop and a parent version. We can run these face to face or online. Our other PDs have developed in response to the Te Kete Rangimarie workshops as we have seen unique needs of different centres and children.

Our Professional Developments have been created using a variety of sources, experiences, and ideas. Most can be easily adapted to suit your centre or homebased service environment or philosophy. Elise and Erin have compiled these to make them relevant and clear for everyone.