Learning language using Tākai resources
Tākai resources you can use with whānau to explore language learning with their child.
Tākai resources
In the Whakatipu booklet Te Pihinga 3 on page 23, ‘Talking and listening’ remind us:
- that children of this age understand much more than they can say
- to get down to their level and speak face to face, using clear language
- to share waiata, stories and pukapuka every day.
Here are other helpful places in Te Pihinga 3 to explore with whānau:
- Page 4 — ‘Pēpi says: I’m starting to understand and respond to more kupu.’
- Page 9 — ‘Waiata kōhungahunga: Pēpi loves to hear the same familiar songs over and over…’
- Page 15 — ‘Pēpi says: I’m amazed at what my tongue can do. I like to practise all the different sounds.’
- Page 16 — ‘Pēpi says: I love my waiata…’
- Page 18 — 'Whānau say: We are giving pēpi a world rich in language every day by describing, responding, confirming, adding and modelling — “bathe him in te reo”.’
- Page 19 — ‘Kaitiaki pēpi: Ngā mahi a rehia is…the art of story-telling, singing, dancing and kapa haka.’
Dealing with toddler impatience
The World of Under-fives booklet (pages 8-9) reminds parents that toddlers ‘want things here and now’, and suggests:
- ‘try to tell them about things in advance. “When I’ve finished hanging out the washing we will…”’
- ‘praise behaviour you do like, and ignore behaviour you don’t’
- ‘try to say what you do want them to do – and why’.
‘Say more positive things than negative things. Kia kaha!’
Ask toddlers nicely
When whānau ask toddlers to do something, remember to:
- say what you want them to do
- give reasons why
- notice, praise and thank them.
In the Aroha in Action booklet, ‘Respect mokopuna space’ (page 19), it reminds whānau, ‘It’s OK for mokopuna to say no to unwanted physical contact.’
Conversation starters
Ask whānau:
- How do these ideas match your child’s behaviour at the moment with regards to their understanding language?
- What changes have you noticed?
- Why do you think that’s happening?
- How do they respond to you when you sing or tell stories?
- What sort of new sounds are they trying to make?
- How has this affected you and your whānau?
- What times with your child have been exciting, fun or made you celebrate?
- Have you had challenges with your child?
- What would you like to talk about?
- What more would you like to find out about?
Helpful resources for whānau
