Peaceful Play Circle: A Gentle Playgroup for Babies and Toddlers in Upper Hutt
In the first two years of life, ordinary moments can hold so much discovery. A baby reaches towards an object, turns it in their hands, and explores its texture. A toddler fills a container, empties it, and begins again. A familiar song draws a moment of recognition.
At Earth School Aotearoa, we want to celebrate and nurture these small explorations.
Our Peaceful Play Circle is a weekly gathering for children under two and their caregivers at Wallaceville Church in Upper Hutt. Through open-ended play, songs, natural materials and shared morning tea, we offer a gentle rhythm for families to connect.
Time to explore at their own pace
Young children bring their own interests to play. Something an adult barely notices may hold a child’s attention for several minutes. Repeating an action can be absorbing; watching another child can be an experience in itself.
Play Circle makes space for that curiosity. Rather than expecting every child to follow the same activity, we offer tamariki opportunities to explore, observe and participate in their own way.
A child may be ready to investigate straight away, or may prefer to stay close to their caregiver as they become familiar with the space. Both are welcome.
A thoughtful approach to early childhood
Peaceful Play Circle is inspired by Waldorf and Pikler approaches, with an emphasis on rhythm, responsive relationships and respect for children’s naturally unfolding development.
In practice, this means creating a welcoming environment, offering simple play materials, and allowing time for children to discover what interests them. Songs and familiar rhythms bring the in-breathe of togetherness, while open-ended play brings the out-breathe of child-led exploration.
Waldorf-inspired rhythm and simplicity
Our Waldorf inspiration shows up in familiar songs, gentle rhythms and simple, natural play materials. Returning to recognisable experiences each week offers a sense of security through continuity, while open-ended materials leave room for children’s imagination and exploration. A shared song or small ritual can become something children and caregivers look forward to together.
Pikler-inspired attention and respect
Our Pikler inspiration invites us to observe carefully, respect children’s initiative and give them time to explore movement and play at their own pace. A caregiver stays available and responsive, while allowing space for a child to try, repeat and discover. We might pause before stepping in to see whether a child wants help or is still absorbed in working something out.
You do not need to know either approach to join. At the heart of the circle is a simple intention: to meet children with care, trust and respect, and to support the adults accompanying them.
A circle for caregivers, too
The early years can be full of tenderness, repetition, joy and uncertainty. Having somewhere to return each week, a place to share a cup of tea and talk with other adults, can be valuable.
Caregivers stay with their children throughout Play Circle. This time is an invitation to pause and notice: What is my child drawn to? What are they trying? Do they need my help, or a little more time? We create a space to learn alongside our children.
The gathering also offers time to enjoy being together, find stillness inside a busy week, meet other families and share the everyday questions of parenting.
You do not need to be familiar with Waldorf or Pikler ideas to join. Curiosity and openness is enough.
Meet Suzi
Peaceful Play Circle is facilitated by Suzi Rea, M.Ed., a Waldorf and Pikler trained early childhood teacher, consultant and peaceful parenting coach.
Suzi brings her experience to creating a calm, nurturing space for young children and a supportive community for the adults who care for them.
Bringing a little of the circle home
You can make room for this kind of play and rhythm at home, too. Set aside a few unhurried minutes with your child, offer a small selection of age-appropriate materials, and watch what catches their attention.
You might sing the same song at a familiar moment each day, or allow an exploration to continue a little longer before moving on. Choose materials suitable for your child’s age and supervise their use, especially when objects may go into mouths.
These small practices can become part of a rhythm that works for your family.
Join us
Peaceful Play Circle welcomes babies and toddlers under two, accompanied by a caregiver.
When: Wednesdays, 10:00–11:30am, during term time
Where: Wallaceville Church, 7 Whitemans Valley Road, Upper Hutt
Cost: $15 per casual session or $120 per term
Facilitator: Suzi Rea, M.Ed.
If you are looking for a gentle playgroup in Upper Hutt, we would love to welcome you and your little one.