This week, our BestStart Greenmeadows whānau came together to celebrate Matariki, embracing the values of reflection, connection, gratitude, and new beginnings.
Our journey began by exploring the Matariki stars and discovering the unique stories and meanings each one holds.
Through beautiful waiata and engaging pūrākau, tamariki developed an understanding of this special time of year while strengthening their connection to te ao Māori. Throughout the week, learning came alive through meaningful experiences.
Tamariki expressed their creativity by creating their own beautiful Matariki stars, carefully exploring colour, pattern, and symbolism. Our tamariki also became little chefs as they peeled pumpkins and kūmara, discussing where the vegetables came from, how they would be cooked, and what would happen when we blended them into a smooth, delicious soup.
Storytime with kaiako provided opportunities for tamariki to listen, wonder, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of the traditions of Matariki. The highlight of our week was coming together as one whānau for a special hākari.
We shared the delicious pumpkin and kūmara soup that the tamariki had helped prepare, celebrated with laughter during a game of Matariki Bingo, and finished with a disco filled with music, dancing, and smiles. It was a beautiful reminder that Matariki is about coming together, sharing kai, celebrating one another, and creating lasting memories.