Today we visited the Bupa Retirement Village to sing Matariki songs for the residents in the dementia ward.
The girls wore a traditional Māori dress, while the boys were dressed in a Korowai to present their songs. We sang "Waiti Waita" and "Titira Mai Nga Iwi" and then "He Waka Eke Noa".
The audience loved it so much that they asked if the children would sing some more songs. After singing a few more we asked if the residents would like to join the children in colouring in the Matariki star picture.
This also went down a treat, and we all sat around their table to colour in. I am not sure who was enjoying this activity more. There were lots of smiles from everyone. Then the residence had to leave for their very own van trip, so we all said goodbye and thanked them for having us. We then went and had some morning tea before heading back to our centre.
These visits really enhance children's sense of belonging around people and places. It is so rewarding for the children as much as it is for the Bupa residence. We look forward to visiting again next month.