At BestStart Epsom, we believe every child benefits from exploring the many cultures, traditions and experiences that make our community so special. Through hands-on learning and meaningful celebrations, our tamariki develop respect for others, build confidence and strengthen their sense of belonging.
Recently, we celebrated Chinese Language Week, Samoan Language Week and World Music Day. These special occasions gave tamariki the opportunity to explore new languages, traditions and creative ways of expressing themselves while learning together.
Chinese Language Week
Our tamariki celebrated Chinese Language Week through a variety of engaging experiences that introduced them to Chinese language and culture. Children explored traditional Chinese-style painting using black and pink paint, practised simple Chinese greetings and vocabulary, sang songs and learnt about Chinese traditions during group learning times.
These experiences encouraged children to appreciate different languages and cultures while recognising that every family's heritage is unique and valued. It was a wonderful week filled with curiosity, creativity and meaningful learning.
Samoan Language Week
Samoan Language Week gave our tamariki the opportunity to explore Samoan culture through language, art, movement and food. Children learnt Samoan greetings, created flower garlands and coconut tree artwork, and discovered the importance of the coconut tree in Samoan culture.
They also enjoyed a traditional Samoan game, working together while practising counting in Samoan. A special highlight was welcoming one of our parents, who shared the traditional Samoan Sasa dance with the children. Tamariki loved joining in with the movements and learning how stories can be told through dance.
We also enjoyed sharing delicious coconut cookies together, making the celebration even more memorable.
World Music Day
World Music Day was full of music, movement and excitement as our tamariki explored a range of musical instruments, including drums, tambourines, guitars, bells and shakers.
Children enjoyed singing, moving to music and experimenting with different sounds while developing their listening, coordination and self-expression skills. It was wonderful to see their confidence and joy as they made music together.
At our centre, we value opportunities that celebrate diversity, creativity and belonging. Experiences like these help our tamariki develop an appreciation for the world around them while creating lasting memories through shared learning.