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The importance of culture at BestStart Papatoetoe
At BestStart Papatoetoe, we celebrated Malo e lelei ki he taha kotoa, (Tongan language week), which was loud and buzzing with showing respect to Whanau, kaiako and tamariki as unique individuals while actively celebrating the diverse nature of our community as per our philosophy.
Throughout the week, our children took active part in learning the basic Tongan words. We would like to thank our Tongan whanau for bringing the Artifacts for children to feel and see what our Tongan friends have as cultural values and art. That relates to our vision, "you have found a home with us", as we develop, learn and grow with trust, understanding and sharing knowledge thus creating a reciprocal, responsive learning environment where children and whanau feel valued and promoted. We did lots of singing and dancing. Cultural diversity kehekehe ʻo e anga fakafonuá) build young children's self-confidence and skills and children's awareness,
We also celebrated Te Wiki o Te Reo - Te Reo Maori Week which was celebrated with a band, Our tamariki showed great interest in learning and understanding the Maori words, phrases, stories of legends and waitas (songs). special for our tamariki to learn more and enrich their knowledge regarding Maori culture and traditions. Language and culture are inseparable and we as Kaiako’s support in enhancing the sense of identity, belonging and wellbeing of mokopuna by actively promoting te reo and tikanga Māori as stated in the Te Whariki.
Rangoli patterns arebright, colourful and beautiful designs that are associated with Diwali) They enjoyed henna decorated on hands. Bache (children) enjoyed the Indian music and danced on Bollywood songs. Our rooms were decorated with decorations and children's art (diya and rangoli) crafts. We lighted the diya and prayed with the children where , Diwali symbolizes the spiritual "victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance". them to experience is important to creating a diverse and understanding community. With understanding comes acceptance and it is important to create this understanding as early as possible by allowing children from all cultures and religions to share there experiences and what is important to them and their families. By celebrating Diwali and any other important festivals which arise throughout the year enables children to feel valued, supported and respected, with this comes confident children and learners.