Why do it?

  • It’s an opportunity to create something personal for baby in just a few minutes.
  • It’s an opportunity for parents to explore their feelings with a friend.
  • Thinking about baby as a person early helps to build a positive relationship.

How to do it

Sit with a friend (or write the poem by yourself).

  • Step 1: Think of 1 word that relates to your chosen topic.
  • Step 2: Your friend adds 2 words that follow the first word.
  • Step 3: Think of 3 more words that relate to the topic.
  • Step 4: Your friend adds 2 more words.
  • Step 5: Finish the poem with 1 word.
  • An example:

Excited

About possibilities

When you arrive

Lovely little

One

Using more reo Māori

Te reo Māori English
Poetry
To write
Word
Kotahi te kupu One word
E rua ngā kupu Two words
E toru ngā kupu Three words
E rima ngā rarangi Five lines
Friend
Love, affection, compassion, empathy
Hear, smell, feel
to desire, wish for
To show affection for
Support, take care of, protect