A peaceful space to grow, connect and learn together.
About Kumanu Early Years
"Kumanu" is a Māori word meaning to tend carefully, to foster, to care for and to cherish. It reflects our belief that every whānau deserves support that is warm, inclusive, and grounded in the needs of both parent and child.
“During COVID, the support I needed as a new mother was taken away. I want to create for others what I missed out on.”
Many parents today are raising children without the collective care we once relied on. Kumanu Early Years is a gentle reimagining of that village. We offering a space of heart-led support, community, and conscious parenting practice,through parent-infant groups, workshops, kōrero circles, and meaningful community connection.
“Parenting - It’s not about being a perfect parent. It’s about building a peaceful, respectful relationship with your child, and trusting both of you to grow together”.
Kumanu Early Years is built on the respectful parenting philosophies of Magda Gerber and Emmi Pikler. These approaches honour children as capable, whole beings from birth—and encourage parents to form deep, respectful relationships with them from the very start. Key aspects include:
Respecting and communicating with their baby from birth
Trusting their child's natural developmental rhythms
Offering simple, unhurried play in a safe and inviting space
Being present, not perfect—observing more, doing less
Creating calm, loving boundaries that help babies feel safe
We invite parents to rest, reflect, and grow together—not only as caregivers, but as whole people deserving of support, compassion, and space to be.
The Heart of Kumanu
Malenka Robinson
Founder
Our founder, Malenka, brings over two decades of experience in early childhood education and a deep personal journey through motherhood. Her mission is to offer something heartfelt and real—an environment where parents can feel seen, grounded, and nourished.
“We are human BEings, not human DOings.”
In a world that tells parents to go faster, do more, and be everything, Kumanu Early Years offers a gentle reminder: you are enough, and you’re not alone.
