We have just finished celebrating Lunar New Year at BestStart Manukau, and the whole experience was truly wonderful. This special celebration provided a meaningful opportunity for our tamariki to learn about Asian cultures in an engaging and authentic way.
The children loved participating in hands-on experiences that allowed them to explore traditions, symbols, language, and festive customs. Dressed in vibrant red and gold, they filled our centre with colour and joy.
One of the highlights was taking their self-created dragon on a lively parade around the playground. As they marched together playing the drums, their excitement and teamwork were on full display. It was heartwarming to see their creativity, collaboration, and confidence shine throughout the experience.
The tamariki also enjoyed making traditional fans and lanterns, carefully crafting their artwork while learning about their cultural significance. They practised simple greetings, numbers, and songs in Chinese, embracing the opportunity to explore a new language in a fun and supportive environment.
Fortune cookies were a highlight at afternoon tea, with each child delighted to discover an inspiring message inside. At BestStart Manukau, we look forward to continuing to celebrate the diverse cultures within our community.