At BestStart Stokes Valley, we are proud to celebrate the cultures, languages and traditions that reflect our diverse centre community.
Recently, we celebrated Filipino Language Week, a special opportunity to acknowledge and honour the heritage of our Filipino tamariki, kaiako and whānau.
Celebrating cultural identity is central to our practice. By recognising and valuing the languages and traditions of our tamariki, we foster a strong sense of belonging and pride. These celebrations also provide meaningful opportunities for all children to develop understanding, respect and appreciation for the cultures that enrich our centre.
A highlight of the week was introducing tamariki to Pabitin, a traditional Filipino party game. The children were delighted as they reached for the hanging treats, laughing and encouraging one another throughout the experience. This interactive game not only provided fun and excitement but also offered an authentic way to connect with Filipino culture. We were also fortunate to have support from our Filipino families, who generously brought in food to share. Sharing kai together is a wonderful way for tamariki to engage with cultural traditions through taste, smell and storytelling, deepening their understanding in a joyful and memorable way.
Filipino Language Week was a vibrant and meaningful celebration that highlighted the joy of coming together as a community. The week provided opportunities for tamariki to learn through play, taste, and shared experiences, while also encouraging them to recognise and value the unique identities of their peers. By creating space for these cultural celebrations, we strengthen connections across our centre and ensure every child sees their heritage reflected and respected. At BestStart Stokes Valley, we are committed to continuing to recognise and celebrate the many cultures that make our centre a place where every tamariki and whānau feel they truly belong.