Isobel was sitting on the couch with the red piece of a big rainbow. She set up a game calling her hoa (friends) to go and find objects in the room that were also red and matched the rainbow strip. She continued through the colours giving instructions and encouraging and complimenting her friends in their efforts.
Today marks the beginning of Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori, or Māori Language week. When reading a story with the tamariki at mat time about a taniwha, we were impressed with some pre-existing knowledge of the Māori personas Papatuanuku and Ranginui. We extended this knowledge further with the creation legend at lunch mat time.
Recognise
Isobel, lead a spontaneous game with her close friends. She used praise to encourage her peers through verbal communication and gestures. She used body language to support her friends also giving them ideas of where to find piece. They showed an understanding of colours through play.
It was very encouraging to recognise the prior understanding that tamariki have gathered when it comes to Te Reo Māori language and legends. It is fantastic to witness the knowledge of our cultural heritage blossoming within their young minds.
Respond
This will be documented in Isobel Kete ako.
We will be further developing this knowledge throughout the week when celebrating Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori. Activities surrounding not only linguistic conversation will be explored, along with a consideration of tikanga and cultural practice. More to come!
