What is the RIE Approach, and How Does Small Sprouts Integrate It into Early Learning?

At Small Sprouts, we embrace a holistic approach to early childhood education, blending elements of Te Whāriki, Reggio Emilia, and the RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers) philosophy. These approaches work together to create an environment where tamariki feel respected, empowered, and nurtured.

Many parents ask, “What is the RIE approach?” and “How does it benefit my child?” In this blog, we’ll break down RIE’s core principles and how we integrate them into our teaching, caregiving, and daily interactions with tamariki at Small Sprouts.

What is the RIE Approach?

The RIE approach (pronounced ‘rye’) was founded in the 1970s by Magda Gerber, an infant specialist who believed that even the youngest children deserve respect and autonomy.

At its core, RIE is about:

• Respecting infants and toddlers as capable individuals

• Allowing them to develop at their own pace

• Creating a calm, predictable environment

• Encouraging independent play and movement

• RIE encourages kaiako (teachers) and parents to slow down, observe, and trust that children are naturally driven to learn.

 The Core Principles of RIE

At Small Sprouts, we integrate several key RIE principles into our teaching and caregiving practices.

🤲 1. Respect for the Child

RIE treats even the youngest tamariki as capable, independent individuals. This means involving them in decisions, communicating with them, and allowing them to be active participants in their own care.

How We Apply This at Small Sprouts:

• We talk to tamariki before picking them up or changing their nappies.

• We allow tamariki to express preferences in daily routines (e.g., choosing a toy, selecting their food).

• We listen deeply to each child’s cues, body language, and emotions.

💡 Example: Instead of rushing through a nappy change, our kaiako pause, explain, and invite participation: "I’m going to change your nappy now. What shall we sing while we do it?" 💡

🧘 2. Unhurried, Predictable Routines

Young children thrive on consistency. The RIE approach values slow, mindful caregiving, allowing infants and toddlers to feel secure and confident.

How We Apply This at Small Sprouts:

• We follow consistent meal, sleep, and play routines so tamariki feel safe.

• We avoid rushing caregiving moments, allowing time for connection.

• We encourage self-care (e.g., allowing toddlers to try feeding themselves).

💡 Example: When transitioning from outdoor play to lunch, we use gentle transitions instead of abrupt changes: "It’s almost time for lunch. Let’s wash our hands together before we eat." 💡

🌱 3. Encouraging Natural Movement & Self-Initiated Play

RIE encourages natural gross motor development, allowing children to move freely rather than being placed in restrictive positions (e.g., bouncers, walkers).

How We Apply This at Small Sprouts:

• We trust tamariki to develop at their own pace—we don’t force sitting, standing, or walking before they’re ready.

• We provide safe, open spaces for free movement.

• We let infants explore without constant interference, promoting independence.

💡 Example: Instead of placing a baby in a sitting position before they’re ready, we allow them to naturally roll, reach, and sit at their own pace. 💡

🎨 4. Respectful, Open-Ended Play

In RIE, play is self-directed, not adult-led. This means giving tamariki simple, natural materials and allowing them to explore on their own terms.

How We Apply This at Small Sprouts:

• We offer open-ended toys like wooden blocks, fabric, and natural materials.

• We observe instead of directing play, letting tamariki discover their own interests.

• We create calm, uncluttered play areas, reducing overstimulation.

💡 Example: Instead of showing a child how to build a tower, we provide wooden blocks and let them experiment freely. 💡

❤️ 5. Meaningful Adult-Child Interactions

RIE places great value on building secure, trusting relationships between caregivers and children.

How We Apply This at Small Sprouts:

• Our kaiako build strong, primary relationships with each child.

• We use gentle, encouraging language and make eye contact when speaking.

• We follow each child’s unique rhythm, respecting their emotional needs.

💡 Example: If a toddler is upset, we don’t distract them with toys. Instead, we acknowledge their feelings:
"I see you’re feeling sad. I’m here for you."

Final Thoughts: A Respectful, Nurturing Approach to Early Learning

Many parents appreciate that the RIE approach fosters independence, confidence, and secure attachments. At Small Sprouts, we believe that tamariki thrive when they feel respected, valued, and supported. By blending the RIE philosophy with play-based learning, Reggio Emilia, and Te Whāriki, we create an environment where children grow with confidence and joy.