Waitangi Day Celebrations For Kids
Waitangi Day is an important day in New Zealand, commemorating the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840. The treaty was a document between the British Crown and the Māori people of New Zealand. It marked a new partnership between the two cultures, and is now celebrated every year on February 6th. For many families in New Zealand, celebrating Waitangi Day is an important part of their culture and heritage, and a special way to remember the past.
If you're looking for ways to celebrate Waitangi Day with kids, there's no shortage of activities to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:
1. Make a Placemat
The Treaty of Waitangi is an important document, so why not make a placemat to remind kids of its importance? You can use fabric paint to create a design on a canvas placemat, or use construction paper to create a paper placemat. Print out the text of the treaty, or decorate the placemat with symbols of the treaty. Kids can color the placemat and make it their own.
2. Have a BBQ
What better way to celebrate Waitangi Day than with a BBQ? Have a potluck-style BBQ and invite friends and family to join you. Kids can help prepare the food, and you can talk about the importance of Waitangi Day as you eat. Make sure to include some traditional Māori dishes, like hangi (meat and vegetables steamed in an underground oven) and kumara (sweet potato).
3. Learn About Māori Culture
Waitangi Day is a great opportunity to learn about the Māori people and their culture. Kids can learn about the traditional Māori language, Te Reo Māori, or the traditional Māori arts and crafts. You can also find books about Māori history or watch a film or documentary about Māori culture.
4. Make Music
Music is an important part of Māori culture, and Waitangi Day is a great time to learn about it. Kids can learn to play traditional Māori instruments, like the pūtōrino (flute) or the taonga pūoro (traditional percussion instruments). Or, you can teach them the words to traditional Māori songs and have them sing along.
5. Play Games
There are lots of traditional Māori games that kids can play on Waitangi Day. The game of mōteatea is a great one for younger children. It involves singing a song while passing a “ball” (usually a bundle of sticks) around the circle. Another game is kōnane, which is a strategy game similar to chess.
6. Read a Book
Books are a great way to learn about Māori culture and the history of Waitangi Day. Look for books written by Māori authors, or books that tell stories of Māori culture. You can also find books about the Treaty of Waitangi and its importance in New Zealand's history.
7. Visit a Marae
A marae is a traditional Māori meeting place. Visiting a marae is a great way to learn about Māori culture, and to experience the beauty and sacredness of the marae. You may even be able to attend a traditional Māori ceremony while you’re there.
8. Make Art
Māori art is an integral part of their culture, and Waitangi Day is a great time to explore it. Kids can make art with traditional Māori designs, or use natural materials to make a sculpture or painting. They can also learn about traditional Māori weaving and carving, or try their hand at creating a traditional Māori weapon, like a taiaha (wooden club).
9. Plant a Tree
Planting a tree is a great way to honor the spirit of Waitangi Day. Kids can choose a native New Zealand tree, like a kauri or a pohutukawa, and plant it in their garden or in a nearby park. This is a great way to teach kids about the importance of protecting the environment, while also celebrating Waitangi Day.
10. Have a Parade
A parade is a great way to get kids excited about Waitangi Day. Kids can make their own flags, or decorate their bikes or scooters with ribbons and streamers. They can also wear traditional Māori clothing, or dress up as Māori warriors. Finally, lead a procession around the neighborhood and make sure everyone is having a great time!
Waitangi Day is an important day in New Zealand, and it’s a great opportunity to celebrate Māori culture and history with kids. From making placemats to having a parade, there are lots of fun activities that kids can do to commemorate the day. So get creative and have some fun this Waitangi Day!
Post a Comment for "Waitangi Day Celebrations For Kids"
Post a Comment