LATEST STORIES
Diversity & Unity at BestStart Bader Street
At BestStart Bader Street, we love celebrating the diverse cultures in our community. On 2nd October, our centre had the honor of showcasing the talents of our preschoolers at the Waikato BestStart Cultural Show, an event that brought together centres from across the region to celebrate cultural expression through different performances.
Our performance featured three beautiful dances from different cultures:
"Ang Pipit" – This is a traditional Filipino folk song about a small bird, and the dance portrays themes of care and compassion for the fragile. The gentle movements and expressive gestures in the dance emphasize empathy and protectiveness.
"Chogada" – A lively and colorful dance from India, "Chogada" is associated with celebration and joy, particularly during festivals. The fast-paced rhythm and energy made this a delightful addition, showcasing Catherine’s ability to keep up with vibrant, quick movements.
"Tu Tira Mai nga Iwi" – This is a well-loved Māori song that calls for unity and togetherness. The dance is a powerful representation of cultural pride and connection, symbolizing how we come together as one, despite our diverse backgrounds.
Participating in the Waikato Beststart Cultural Show has provided our preschoolers with an unforgettable experience. Performing in front of a large audience has helped them build greater independence and confidence while working as a team with their friends has enhanced their social skills and sense of unity.
The event not only celebrated cultural diversity but also allowed our children to deepen their connection with the other Tamariki and appreciate the beauty of different traditions. These experiences are invaluable in shaping their confidence, resilience, and pride in contributing to a group effort. The opportunity to witness other centers' performances further enriched the experience of our Tamariki, giving them exposure to various cultures, strengthening their sense of belonging, and enhancing their appreciation for the world beyond their immediate environment. It was a fantastic way to bridge our curriculum with real-world learning.