Each day our morning hui begins with the National Anthem. The tamariki gather together with their arms around one another or hand in hand as they sing. This ritual has created both a sense of belonging for each child and has formed a familiar, comfortable custom within the room. This musical experience encourages all children to participate as they develop their own way to be creative and expressive.
As the tamariki are still learning the words we have being playing the National Anthem through out the day. Today I witnessed Maya, Madeline, Miguel & Phoenix as they came together, hand in hand singing the words over and over, becoming more familiar with the Te Reo and English verses. Slowly but surely Harper and Jaime joined them and together they swayed to the music and created their own haka to the beat of the music.
Te Reo Maori is a natural part of our programme along with many customs and regular events that we have created in the Kiwi Room. As we are focusing on being more aware of cultural celebrations, languages and experiences of our children and families we are becoming more familiar with new waiata and dance.
