Waitangi Day (Māori: Te Rā o Waitangi) Activity Ideas
Waitangi Day, celebrated every year on February 6th, holds significant historical and cultural importance in New Zealand. It commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on this day in 1840, which marks the foundation of the nation.
At the heart of Waitangi Day lies the spirit of partnership, participation, and protection – values that resonate with the principles of the NQS. By incorporating Waitangi Day activities into your childcare setting, you're providing children with opportunities to explore cultural diversity, develop a sense of belonging, and build respectful relationships. These activities not only foster a deeper understanding of New Zealand's history but also promote social and emotional wellbeing.
Birth to 3 Years Activity Title: "Māori Symbol Pathway"
Materials:
Printouts of traditional Māori symbols (e.g., Silver Ferns, Kiwi's, Koru, Tiki, Manaia)
Clear contact paper (adhesive plastic)
Safe adhesive to stick printouts to the floor
Instructions:
Print out traditional Māori symbols, ensuring they are large enough for children to see and interact with.
Stick these printouts onto the floor of the play area in a scattered, walkable pattern.
Cover the printouts with clear contact paper to protect them and make them safe for children to walk or crawl over.
Introduce the activity to the children, encouraging them to explore the symbols by walking or crawling along the pathway.
As they move over the symbols, educators can talk about the significance of each symbol in Māori culture.
Links for Māori Symbols:
EYLF Outcome: 2.1 Children develop a sense of connectedness to groups and communities
VEYLDF Outcome: 2.3 Children respond to diversity with respect
Analysis of Learning: This activity introduces young children to Māori cultural symbols in a tactile and interactive way. It helps develop their understanding of cultural diversity and respect for different cultural expressions.
Birth to 3 Years: "Māori Pattern Play Mats"
Materials:
Soft play mats with traditional Māori patterns
Safe, tactile objects like soft toys or fabric pieces with Māori designs
Instructions:
Spread the Māori patterned play mats in the play area.
Allow infants and toddlers to explore the patterns through touch and sight.
Introduce soft toys or fabric pieces with similar patterns for them to feel and play with.
EYLF Outcome: 2.4 Children become socially responsible and show respect for the environment
VEYLDF Outcome: 2.1 Children develop a sense of belonging to groups and communities
Analysis of Learning: This activity introduces young children to the visual aspects of Māori culture through sensory exploration, fostering recognition of cultural patterns and symbols.
3 to 5 Years: "Te Reo Māori Storytelling"
Materials:
Picture books or storytelling props based on Māori legends and myths
Simple phrases in Te Reo Māori for storytelling
Instructions:
Use picture books or props to tell traditional Māori stories.
Teach children simple phrases in Te Reo Māori to enhance the storytelling experience.
QKLG Outcome: Communicating - Exploring and expanding language
VEYLDF Outcome: 5.1 Children interact verbally and non-verbally with others for a range of purposes
Analysis of Learning: Encourages language development and cultural awareness. Storytelling with elements of Te Reo Māori offers an engaging way to learn about Māori heritage and language.
Document the learning that is happening with our FREE learning story pack
5 to 8 Years: "Waitangi Day Creative Art"
Materials:
Art supplies like paint, paper, natural materials
Images or examples of traditional Māori art for inspiration
Instructions:
Discuss the significance of Waitangi Day and Māori art.
Encourage children to create their own artwork inspired by Māori designs and symbols.
VEYLDF Outcome: 5.3 Children express ideas and make meaning using a range of media
MTOP Outcome: 4.3 Children and young people transfer and adapt what they have learned from one context to another
Analysis of Learning: Fosters creativity and self-expression. Children learn about and appreciate Māori culture through artistic exploration, blending traditional and contemporary expressions.
Birth to 3 Years: "Exploring the Koru"
Materials:
Soft, spiral-shaped cushions or toys resembling the Koru (a spiral shape based on the appearance of a new unfurling silver fern frond, symbolizing growth and harmony in Māori culture)
Picture books showing the Koru in nature and art
Instructions:
Introduce the Koru shape to infants and toddlers through tactile play with spiral-shaped cushions or toys.
Use picture books to show the Koru in various natural and artistic forms.
EYLF Outcome: 2.1 Children develop a sense of connectedness to groups and communities
VEYLDF Outcome: 2.3 Children respond to diversity with respect
Analysis of Learning: This activity introduces young children to a key symbol in Māori culture, fostering early appreciation for cultural diversity through sensory exploration.
3 to 5 Years: "Māori Waka Building"
Materials:
Craft materials to construct simple model waka (canoes)
Images and stories about Māori waka and their significance
Instructions:
Guide children in building model waka using craft materials.
Share stories and images of Māori waka, discussing their historical and cultural significance.
QKLG Outcome: Active Learning - Building positive dispositions towards learning
VEYLDF Outcome: 4.4 Children resource their own learning through connecting with people, place, technologies, and natural and processed materials
Analysis of Learning: Encourages understanding of Māori traditions and history. Building model waka enhances fine motor skills and offers a tangible connection to New Zealand's maritime heritage.
5 to 8 Years: "Māori Poi Dance and Craft"
Materials:
Materials to make poi (a traditional Māori performance art tool, usually a ball on a string)
Instructions for simple poi dances
Instructions:
Guide children in making their own poi using materials like fabric, yarn, and soft balls.
Teach them basic movements of poi dance, integrating aspects of Māori culture and history.
VEYLDF Outcome: 5.2 Children engage with a range of texts and gain meaning from these texts
. MTOP Outcome: 4.1 Children and young people develop dispositions for learning such as curiosity and cooperation
.
Analysis of Learning: Combines cultural education with physical activity. Making and using poi introduces Māori cultural practices in a fun, engaging way, promoting motor skills and cultural appreciation.
These activities are designed to provide a hands-on learning experience about important aspects of Māori culture and Waitangi Day, making them suitable for young children in a childcare setting.
Birth to 3 Years: "Māori Musical Instruments Exploration"
Materials:
Safe Māori musical instruments or replicas (like small drums or shakers)
Recordings of traditional Māori music
Instructions:
Play recordings of traditional Māori music for the children.
Allow infants and toddlers to explore the instruments by handling, shaking, or tapping them.
Encourage them to move or dance to the music.
EYLF Outcome: 3.1 Children become strong in their social, emotional, and mental wellbeing.
VEYLDF Outcome: 3.1 Children become strong in their social, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.
Analysis of Learning: This activity introduces young children to the sounds and rhythms of Māori culture, enhancing sensory development, and encouraging physical coordination and musical exploration.
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3 to 5 Years: "Māori Flag and Symbol Art"
Materials:
Art supplies (paint, crayons, stickers)
Templates of the Māori flag and symbols (Koru)
Instructions:
Show images of the Māori flag and discuss its colors and meanings.
Provide templates for children to color or decorate.
Display the finished art as a Waitangi Day celebration.
QKLG Outcome: Wellbeing - Exploring ways to be healthy and safe.
VEYLDF Outcome: 4.3 Children transfer and adapt what they have learned from one context to another.
Analysis of Learning: Fosters an understanding of Māori cultural symbols and the significance of the Māori flag through creative expression and art, promoting creativity and cultural awareness.
5 to 8 Years: "Waitangi Treaty Role-Play"
Materials:
Simple costumes or props
A script or story outline based on the Treaty of Waitangi
Instructions:
Assign roles and guide the children through a role-play of the Treaty signing.
Discuss the Treaty's importance and its impact.
VEYLDF Outcome: 4.2 Children develop a range of skills and processes such as problem-solving.
MTOP Outcome: 4.3 Children and young people transfer and adapt what they have learned from one context to another.
Analysis of Learning: Engages children in understanding historical perspectives and the importance of the Treaty of Waitangi, enhancing communication skills and cooperative learning through interactive role-play.
Birth to 3 Years: "Māori Textured Tactile Play"
Materials:
Fabric or materials with traditional Māori patterns
Safe, age-appropriate Māori toys or props (e.g., soft toys with Māori designs)
Instructions:
Provide infants and toddlers with various textured fabrics and Māori-themed soft toys.
Encourage them to explore the textures through touch, feel, and sensory play.
EYLF Outcome: 2.1 Children develop a sense of belonging to groups and communities. VEYLDF Outcome: 2.1 Children develop a sense of belonging to groups and communities.
Analysis of Learning: This sensory activity introduces young children to Māori textures and patterns, promoting sensory development and tactile exploration.
3 to 5 Years: "Pūrākau (Story) Sensory Bins"
Materials:
Sensory bins filled with rice or sand
Small Māori-themed figurines or objects
Story cards with traditional Māori legends
Instructions:
Place Māori-themed figurines or objects in the sensory bins.
Provide story cards with traditional Māori legends related to the objects.
Children explore the sensory bins, act out the stories, and create their own narratives.
QKLG Outcome: Wellbeing - Children engage with a range of texts and gain meaning from these texts.
VEYLDF Outcome: 4.3 Children transfer and adapt what they have learned from one context to another.
Analysis of Learning: This sensory activity combines storytelling and tactile exploration, enhancing language development, creativity, and imaginative play while connecting with Māori culture.
5 to 8 Years: "Māori Flora and Fauna Sensory Garden"
Materials:
Outdoor garden area or sensory table
Plants or plant cuttings native to New Zealand
Small Māori symbols or figurines related to nature
Soil, sand, or sensory materials
Instructions:
Create a sensory garden with native New Zealand plants and sensory materials.
Include Māori symbols or figurines related to nature.
Children explore the garden, learn about native flora and fauna, and engage their senses.
VEYLDF Outcome: 2.2 Children respond to diversity with respect.
MTOP Outcome: 4.3 Children and young people transfer and adapt what they have learned from one context to another.
Analysis of Learning: This sensory garden activity connects children with New Zealand's natural environment, promoting sensory exploration, environmental awareness, and respect for cultural diversity.
Birth to 3 Years: "Māori Sensory Exploration Mats"
Materials:
Sensory mats with traditional Māori patterns
Safe, age-appropriate Māori-themed sensory objects (e.g., soft toys, textured items)
Instructions:
Place sensory mats with Māori patterns in the play area.
Provide infants and toddlers with Māori-themed sensory objects.
Encourage them to explore the mats and objects through touch, sight, and sensory play.
EYLF Outcome: 1.1 Children feel safe, secure, and supported.
VEYLDF Outcome: 1.1 Children feel safe, secure, and supported.
Analysis of Learning: This sensory activity introduces young children to Māori patterns and textures, enhancing sensory development and tactile exploration.
3 to 5 Years: "Māori Watercolor Painting"
Materials:
Māori-themed coloring sheets with traditional patterns
Watercolor paints and brushes
Bowls of water and sponges for clean-up
Instructions:
Provide children with Māori-themed coloring sheets featuring traditional patterns.
Offer watercolor paints and brushes.
Children use watercolor paints to explore and color the patterns.
QKLG Outcome: Wellbeing - Children take increasing responsibility for their own health and physical well-being.
VEYLDF Outcome: 3.2 Children take increasing responsibility for their own health and physical well-being.
Analysis of Learning: This sensory art activity allows children to express their creativity while exploring Māori patterns through watercolor painting.
5 to 8 Years: "Kapa Haka Rhythm Drumming"
Materials:
Traditional Māori rhythm instruments (e.g., Pūrerehua, Poi)
Music with Māori rhythmic patterns
Instructions:
Introduce children to traditional Māori rhythm instruments.
Play music with Māori rhythmic patterns.
Children participate in rhythmic drumming, creating their own rhythms inspired by Māori culture.
VEYLDF Outcome: 1.3 Children develop knowledgeable and confident self-identities. MTOP Outcome: 4.2 Children and young people interact with others to explore ideas and solve problems.
Analysis of Learning: This sensory activity allows children to experience the rhythms and sounds of Māori culture through hands-on drumming with traditional instruments.
3 to 5 Years: "Group Koru Collage Creations"
Materials:
Large sheets of paper
Māori Koru templates or stencils
Torn pieces of colourful tissue paper
Glue and brushes
Crayons or pastels
Instructions:
Provide children with large sheets of paper and Māori Koru templates or stencils.
Encourage them to trace the Koru shapes onto their paper.
Offer torn pieces of colorful tissue paper and glue for collage creation within the Koru outlines.
Children can also use crayons or pastels to add details and patterns.
Learning Outcomes:
QKLG Outcome: Wellbeing - Exploring ways to be healthy and safe.
VEYLDF Outcome: 4.3 Children transfer and adapt what they have learned from one context to another.
Analysis of Learning This activity fosters creativity and fine motor skills development as children create unique collage artworks using colorful tissue paper within the Koru outlines. It also promotes cultural awareness through the use of Māori Koru templates, enhancing their appreciation of traditional Māori art and symbols
5 to 8 Years: "Māori Symbol Geometry"
Materials:
Geometric shapes in various sizes and colors (e.g., wooden blocks, pattern blocks)
Māori symbol cards with matching shapes
Large paper or canvas
Glue
Instructions:
Provide children with a selection of geometric shapes and Māori symbol cards.
Encourage them to match the geometric shapes to the symbols on the cards.
Children can glue the shapes onto large paper or canvas to recreate Māori symbols using geometry.
Relevant Learning Outcomes:
VEYLDF Outcome: 4.3 Children transfer and adapt what they have learned from one context to another.
QKLG Outcome: Wellbeing - Exploring ways to be healthy and safe.
Analysis of Learning In this activity, children enhance their geometry skills by matching geometric shapes to Māori symbol cards, improving their understanding of shapes and spatial relationships. It also encourages problem-solving abilities and cultural awareness as they recreate Māori symbols using geometry, promoting respect for Māori culture and symbols.
Waitangi day playdough Recipes
Birth to 3 Years: "Koru Playdough"
Ingredients:
1 cup rice flour
1/2 cup (cornflour)
1/2 cup salt
1 cup water
Green food coloring (for the Koru leaf color)
Large plastic Koru leaf cookie cutter (for added fun)
Mixing bowl
Spoon
Saucepan
Instructions:
In a saucepan, mix the rice flour, cornstarch, and salt.
Gradually add water while stirring continuously over low heat until the mixture thickens to a dough-like consistency.
Remove from heat and let it cool.
Once cooled, knead the dough until it's smooth and soft.
Add a few drops of green food coloring and knead until the color is evenly distributed, resembling a Koru leaf.
Use a large plastic Koru leaf cookie cutter to create Koru-shaped playdough pieces.
2. 3 to 5 Years: "Pohutukawa Playdough"
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup salt
2 tablespoons cream of tartar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1.5 cups boiling water
Red food coloring (for the Pohutukawa flower color)
Mixing bowl
Spoon
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and cream of tartar.
Add vegetable oil and mix well.
Gradually add boiling water while stirring continuously until a dough forms.
Let the dough cool for a few minutes.
Once cooled, knead the dough until it's smooth.
Add a few drops of red food coloring and knead until the color resembles the vibrant red Pohutukawa flowers.
Create Pohutukawa flower shapes and designs using the playdough.
3. 5 to 8 Years: "Kiwi Playdough"
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup salt
2 tablespoons cream of tartar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1.5 cups boiling water
Green food coloring (for the Kiwi fruit color)
Brown and black food coloring or markers (for Kiwi bird details)
Mixing bowl
Spoon
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and cream of tartar.
Add vegetable oil and mix well.
Gradually add boiling water while stirring continuously until a dough forms.
Let the dough cool for a few minutes.
Once cooled, knead the dough until it's smooth.
Add a few drops of green food coloring and knead until the color resembles a Kiwi fruit.
Use brown and black food coloring or markers to add Kiwi bird details (eyes, beak, and feathers) to the playdough.
Encourage children to create Kiwi bird and Kiwi fruit shapes using the playdough.
Extension Ideas
Organize a multicultural food tasting day, including traditional New Zealand dishes.
Create a Waitangi Day mural with children's artwork depicting the treaty signing.
Invite a local Māori elder to share stories and cultural insights with the children.
Host a dress-up day where children can wear Māori-inspired costumes or traditional clothing.
Arrange a nature walk to explore native New Zealand plants and their significance.
Learn traditional Māori songs and dances for a mini performance.
Incorporate Māori language lessons and teach basic Te Reo phrases.
Explore the art of Māori tattooing (tā moko) through drawing or face painting.
Plan a field trip to a local museum with Māori artifacts and historical exhibits.
Encourage children to research and present their findings about Māori legends.
Create a collaborative Māori-inspired artwork using various materials.
Set up a New Zealand-themed sensory bin with native textures and objects.
Discuss the concept of kaitiakitanga (guardianship of natural resources) and its importance.
Incorporate math by counting and sorting traditional Māori symbols or items.
Organize a Māori storytelling circle where children take turns sharing stories.
Explore the significance of the Māori flag and create flag-themed crafts.
Encourage children to write and illustrate their own Waitangi Day stories.
Host a traditional Māori game day with games like kī-o-rahi or waiata (songs).
Teach children about the concept of whānau (family) and its importance in Māori culture.
Foster environmental awareness by planting native New Zealand trees or plants in your center's garden.
Document the learning that is happening with our FREE learning story pack
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