Nine Years Ago in Saudi Arabia — and Still Going Strong Today

Today marks nine years since I had the great honour of being a keynote speaker at an educational conference in Saudi Arabia. I spoke on a topic that remains just as close to my heart today as it was then—social responsibility in early childhood education.

I proudly represented New Zealand and shared how we teach our children/tamariki at Little School. I was later interviewed on stage about my journey and the importance of early childhood education, and spent the morning with the Minister of Education, showing him what we do here in New Zealand/Aotearoa. It was a moment of deep pride and purpose.

Nine years on, my passion has only grown stronger.

We know that the brain develops most rapidly from 0–3 and 3–6 years, laying the foundation for everything that follows—emotionally, socially, and academically. This isn’t just knowledge—it’s a call to action. The earlier we invest, the more we empower.

Through Life Learning, I’ve spent over 40 years working to ensure that no child is left behind. I’ve seen firsthand how sensory motor development, play, and the integration of primitive reflexes are not extras—they are essentials.

This Easter, I’m launching a suite of online training programmes and courses—built for teachers, parents, and Ministries of Education globally. These are not just courses—they’re blueprints for change.

They’re the tools we need to build better brains, support development, and create thriving, inclusive learning environments around the world.