The Difference Ratios Make – Stories from the Floor
- threetreesece
- Jul 1
- 2 min read
In early childhood education, ratios aren’t just numbers. They’re moments.
The moment a teacher has time to kneel beside a child and truly listen.
The moment a child is comforted—immediately, not eventually.
The moment learning becomes relational, not rushed.
These aren’t luxuries. They’re outcomes of intentional investment in adult-to-child ratios—ratios that go beyond the minimum required by the Ministry of Education.
Beyond Compliance, Toward Compassion
Our centres commit to better-than-MoE ratios because we know quality isn’t built by ticking boxes. It’s built by people—people who have time, space, and capacity to respond with care.
This means:
More opportunities for 1:1 and small-group interactions.
Fewer transitions and interruptions.
Calmer environments, where children feel seen and secure.
Teachers who can pause, observe, reflect, and truly teach—not just supervise.
Support Roles Matter Too
But we didn’t stop with ratios. We created task-based support roles—people who help with:
Cleaning, laundry, dishes, and meals.
Admin and documentation support.
Outdoor setup and pack-down.
This means our kaiako can stay present in the moment—on the floor, at eye level, where they’re most needed.
Stories from the Floor
One of our kaiako recently shared:
"Having an extra pair of hands during the lunch rush meant I could sit with a child who was upset about saying goodbye to Mum. I didn’t have to choose between dishes and comfort. I got to choose the child. And that made all the difference."
Another reflected:
"Our ratios mean I actually get to notice. I get to pause and wonder aloud with children. That’s when the magic happens."
Why Ratios Are a Justice Issue
High ratios don’t just improve outcomes—they promote equity. Children who need extra support get it. Children with complex needs don’t fall through the cracks. And teachers don’t reach the end of their rope by 10 a.m.
Because when we invest in people, we give them the time to invest in each other.
Coming Next: Beyond the Breakroom: Menopause in the ECE Workplace
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