We were lucky enough to have our second gardening session with Anita and we were so excited.
As Anita walked through the gates, the tamariki (children) eagerly gathered, ready for another special gardening day.
We began with some fun flashcards all about huawhenua (vegetables), and to our delight, the tamariki already knew so many! Then it was time to head outside. With muddy hands and bright smiles, each child held a tiny kākano (seed), ready to begin their journey as kaitiaki (guardians) of the earth.
Planting seeds teaches more than just gardening skills. It’s a lesson in patience, whakawhanaungatanga (building relationships), and care. As the tamariki gently pressed each seed into the whenua (land), they also learned how to look after the environment, take turns, and listen with kindness.
At our centre, kindness is a core value — kindness to each other, to ourselves, and to our environment. While waiting for their turn, the children reflected on what kindness looks like in action.
After our session, we placed the planted seeds in our cubbies, where they’ll receive daily care. Each tamaiti (child) takes turns watering them and talking about their growth.
In their small patch of earth, our tamariki weren’t just planting seeds — they were growing roots of manaakitanga (care and respect) that will stay with them forever.
Watch this space for our next session: Worm Farm!