The cartoons in the Whakatipu series of booklets offer a starting point for discussing and learning about how tamariki grow and develop.

Learning goals

  • Understand how tamariki grow and develop.
  • Enjoy tamariki development and have realistic expectations of them.
  • Know to observe pēpi and take cues from them.

Use the cartoons to talk about development

Invite participants to explore the cartoons in the Tākai Whakatipu booklets and think about the messages they’re giving whānau.

Pick from the following cartoons:

  • Te Pihinga booklet 1, pages 30 and 31
  • Te Pihinga booklet 2, pages 18 and 19
  • Te Pihinga booklet 3, pages 28 and 29
  • Te Kōhuri booklet 1, pages 16 and 17, 26 and 27
  • Te Kōhuri booklet 2, pages 18 and 19
  • Te Kōhuri booklet 3l, pages 28 and 29

Ask the group:

  • What’s happening in the picture?
  • Do you think it’s funny? Why? Why not?
  • What can you say about the development of this pēpi?
  • What can we expect pēpi to want to do at this age and stage?
  • What does the ‘Whānau say’ section tell us?
  • What advice would you give these mātua (parents)?
  • What might pēpi be into next?

Use the same prompting questions to look at other cartoons. Encourage the group to look at ones that link with the age and stage of their tamariki.

You could ask them:

  • Does it reflect what’s going on in your whānau?
  • What is the next stage your tamaiti will be entering?
  • What can you look forward to?

Helpful resources for whānau