Tākai resources you can use with whānau to explore reading with their child.

Singing is a wonderful opportunity to share time, attention and whānau culture with a child, and to give them a rich, multi-sensory experience that they’ll enjoy.

In the Whakatipu booklet Te Pihinga 3 on page 23, ‘Talking and listening’ reminds us of the value in ‘sharing waiata, stories and pukapuka every day’.

Some other places in Te Pihinga 3 to explore with whānau are:

  • Pages 9 and 21 – Waiata kōhungahunga
  • Page 16 – ‘I love my waiata, especially ones with actions.’
  • Page 19 – Ngā mahi a rehia (games)
  • Page 20 – Kapa haka
  • Pages 24 and 25 – Haka time

The Thinking about Parenting booklet, page 9, reminds us how structure and routines can provide a sense of security for children: "I think because we’d sung Moe Moe Pēpi to Ella every time we put her to bed, it became a little sign to her that meant sleep time now…"

Ask whānau:

  • How does your child respond to singing?
  • What works best for getting them to join in?
  • Where do you the songs you enjoy come from?
  • Do you have any ideas where you might learn some new songs?
  • How about action songs?
  • What else would you like to talk about?
  • What more would you like to find out about?

Helpful resources for whānau