LATEST STORIES
Ngā Rawa ā-Māori
Natural resources are gifts from Papa-tū-ā-nuku (Mother Earth) and are fundamental learning experiences.
Recently the children here at Cranford Street have been really interested in making their own masterpieces with natural resources we find while outside. These have included, bark, leaves, sticks, and even shells and little pebbles.
Making 'faces' out of the natural resources has been a big hit, using the different items for eyes, ears, nose, and even adding arms and legs too, and on the odd occasion - eyebrows!
All strands of Te Whāriki are supported when children explore with natural resources. In particular, children’s developing knowledge of the natural resources available in our environment is supported in the Exploration strand. Children develop working theories for making sense of the natural and physical world.
They learn about the features of their natural environment and develop a sense of respect and responsibility for natural resources. They also learn about the important qualities of their environment that are significant to their family and the wider community.
Natural Resources help children to:
- develop an appreciation and understanding of the natural world (animals and plants)
- develop a sense of curiosity
- share in the collection of materials for play
- develop a desire to experiment. "