Kia ora, In our vibrant land of Aotearoa, diversity is our strength and culture is our heartbeat. As our nation becomes a global melting pot, it's essential that we instil a deep appreciation for our own Māori heritage and the rich cultures of the world in the minds and hearts of our tamariki (children).
"E tipu, e rea, mō ngā rā o tō ao. Ko tō ringa ki ngā rākau a te Pākehā, hei ora mō te tinana. Ko tō ngākau ki ngā taonga a ō tīpuna Māori, hei tikitiki mō tō māhunga."
This whakataukī (proverb) encapsulates the significance of nurturing our children's cultural roots while embracing the new. It translates to "Thrive and grow for the days destined to you. Your hands to the tools of the Pākehā (European) for the physical well-being, and your heart to the treasures of your Māori ancestors, as an adornment for your head."
As our New Zealand grow with expats from every corner of the globe, and alongside our own Māori legacy, it becomes more crucial than ever to introduce our young ones to the kaleidoscope of cultures. Early years are a sponge-like phase when children absorb information like eager explorers. This is the perfect window to introduce them to cultural resources that celebrate our own Māori heritage and the rich diversity that surrounds us.
Imagine the joy on their faces as they dress up in their cute Māori outfits, or as they cuddle with a charming Māori doll. The sense of connection to their roots, the acknowledgment of traditions that came before them, and the appreciation for differences will shape their worldview in the most beautiful way.
Here are a few more ideas to celebrate Māori language week at home:
Storytelling: Share stories from your own culture and encourage your children to explore stories from around the world. Try some of our sing-along books to introduce them to the beautiful language.
Other Language Exploration: Introduce simple phrases or words from different languages in the form of puzzles. Learning to say "hello" or "thank you" in different tongues can be a wonderful way to connect.
Let's create a world where our little ones grow up embracing their own roots while reaching out to touch the stars of global diversity. Together, we can shape a future that thrives on unity, understanding, and the celebration of cultures. He waka eke noa – we're all in this canoe together!
Whakawhetai ki te whenua, whakawhetai ki te tangata. (Be thankful to the land, be thankful to the people.)
Contact sales@playnlearn.co.nz if interested in any specific Maori-inspired or cultural resources or check out our website, Facebook or Instagram.