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Waitangi Day Reflections in Te Moana Class
Waitangi Day was a truly special occasion for the children of Te Moana class. As we commemorated the anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on 6th February 1840, we took the opportunity to explore the themes of respect, partnership, and shared agreements.
The Treaty of Waitangi, often referred to as New Zealand’s founding document, was signed by Māori chiefs and representatives of the British Crown, shaping the nation’s history. This provided a meaningful context for our classroom discussions about agreements and mutual respect. Craig initiated an engaging conversation by asking, “What things can we agree on in the class?” The children eagerly contributed their ideas, suggesting agreements such as “Walking feet” and “Gentle hands.” From these discussions, the class worked collaboratively to design their very own class treaty.
This hands-on activity helped the children to understand the value of agreements and the importance of respecting one another’s rights. Once completed, everyone signed the treaty, symbolising their commitment to a harmonious and fair learning environment. Our exploration of Māori culture extended beyond discussions of the Treaty. The children learned about the significance of the marae and participated in the traditional Māori greeting, the hongi. Each child had the opportunity to step into the center of the wharenui and greet one another using the hongi, fostering a deep sense of respect and connection. This experience reinforced the importance of building relationships and embracing cultural traditions.
Art and storytelling played a crucial role in our Waitangi Day celebrations. The children created their own koru designs, inspired by the spiral shape representing growth, new beginnings, and the interconnection of life. Additionally, we read The Treehouse Treaty, a thought-provoking book that explores themes of fairness and agreement. This story resonated with the children, prompting rich discussions about fairness, cooperation, and the importance of working together to create a positive environment.
Throughout these activities, the core principles of Te Whāriki, New Zealand’s early childhood curriculum, were embedded in our learning experiences. The principle of Empowerment (Whakamana) was evident as children actively contributed to the creation of their class treaty, giving them a voice in shaping their environment. Holistic Development (Kotahitanga) was fostered through the integration of cultural learning, art, and social discussions, supporting children’s cognitive, emotional, and social growth. The principle of Family and Community (Whānau Tangata) was reflected in our acknowledgment and respect for Māori traditions, strengthening our connection to Aotearoa’s heritage. Lastly, Relationships (Ngā Hononga) were nurtured as children engaged in the hongi and discussions about fairness, reinforcing positive interactions and collaboration.
The children of Te Moana class thoroughly enjoyed creating their own treaty and engaging in discussions about fairness and respect. This experience has left a lasting impact, as they now look forward to upholding their agreements and fostering a supportive and inclusive classroom environment. By integrating the principles of Te Whāriki, we ensured that our Waitangi Day celebrations were not only meaningful but also aligned with the values of early childhood education in New Zealand.