This commitment to nurturing social connections is beautifully illustrated through the Māori concept of tuakana-teina—the reciprocal relationship between an older and a younger individual where learning flows in both directions.

Recently, we witnessed a heartwarming example of tuakana-teina in action. A two-year-old girl, eager to show kindness, noticed her four-year-old friend preparing to go outside and offered to help him put on his sunblock.

With patience and grace, the older child accepted her assistance, understanding that she was practising how to care for her friends. This simple yet profound moment highlighted not only the little girl’s growing awareness of others, but also the older child’s generosity in embracing her support.

At our centre, we intentionally create an environment where such interactions can flourish. By encouraging children to look after themselves and each other, we empower them to develop essential social and emotional skills.

They learn to be patient, helpful, and considerate of their peers’ needs, which builds their sense of empathy and strengthens their relationships.

The concept of tuakana-teina beautifully aligns with the Montessori approach, where mixed-age classrooms provide opportunities for older children to guide and support their younger peers.

This natural mentorship is not only beneficial for the younger children, who gain confidence and new skills, but also for the older children, who develop leadership abilities, compassion, and a deeper understanding of the world around them.

When we allow children to engage in acts of kindness and support one another, we are encouraging them to see themselves as part of a community. They learn that their actions matter—not just for their own development, but for the wellbeing of those around them.

Moments like this remind us that at Montessori Johnsonville, we are not only nurturing independent and capable individuals, but also compassionate and caring friends. By embracing tuakana-teina and promoting a culture of kindness, we continue to build a supportive environment where children feel valued, understood, and empowered to contribute positively to their community.

Blog