Make a hut Activity
Building a hut helps baby’s muscle development and coordination (crawling, walking, crouching). Cognition is supported (problem-solving, object permanence, language acquisition) and baby explores feelings (like frustration or joy) having fun with you.
Why do it?
- This activity gives baby a chance to practise their motor skills, such as crawling, standing and cruising.
- It helps them learn about hiding and being found.
- They’re also practising their communication and having fun with whānau.
- A chance for baby to explore
How to do it
You’ll need:
- a large cardboard box big enough for baby to crawl into, OR a table/chairs
- a big sheet or blanket
Make your hut:
- Hang the blanket or sheet over the structure and secure with string or pegs to make the hut.
Extras:
- Show baby the ‘hut’ and crawl in yourself to encourage them to come in too.
- Try a game of peekaboo in the hut.
- Read a story to baby in their hut.
Using more te reo Māori
| Te reo Māori | English |
|---|---|
| Whare | House |
| Whare pūrokuroku | Temporary shelter, hui |
| Hanga | To build |
| Tepū | Table |
| Paraikete | Blanket |
| Hīti | Sheet |
| Pouaka nui | Large box |
| Piringa | Shelter, hiding place |
| Uhi | Covering |
| Ngōkingōki | To crawl |
| Huna | Hide |
| Kei roto | In |
| Kei waho | Out |
| Me hangaia he whare mā tāua | Let's build us a house |
| He aha kei roto i te pūrokuroku nei? | What's inside this little hut? |
| Tirohia tēnei whare ātaahua! | Look at this beautiful house! |
| Haramai ki roto | Come inside |
| Me pānui pukapuka tāua? | Shall we read? |
| Kei te hiamoe koe? | Are you tired? |
