Matariki

This is the week when Matariki is celebrated. Matariki is the Māori New Year. It is nearly the middle of winter when the earth (papatuanuku) is at rest, when the family, especially the 'gardeners' in the family turn their thoughts to the new season and what to plant. It is cold outside and ideal for families to be snug inside keeping warm and enjoying being together. In the days gone by this is the time when Taua and Poua would tell stories to their mokopuna. They would also talk about whakapapa and whanau.
Here are some ideas for small children's art work for Matariki. Lots of glitter!

Te Whanau (The Family)

Here is 'my' whanau. In this photo are my brothers, nephews, nieces, brother-in-law, daughter-in-law, sister-in-law, husband, (adult) children and mokopuna (grandchildren)
Having a photo like this is great for one to learn the Māori words for family members and once you know them, learn a simple sentence structure or two - then practice, practice, practice using your Reo.
There are many resources and Websites where you can access the words and sentences you may need.
The RTM's(Resource Teachers of Maori) are also able to help with the kōrero around a Whanau photo.
What a goal to set yourself for 2010. Tumeke! (Go for it!)