How my centre implements Tikanga Maori.

STOP

In my centre, Tikanga Maori protocols are followed in some instances, but during my time there I have noticed that not everything is adhered to. My centre ensures that children do not sit on tables and the children are aware this is bad manners. The children also know that they cannot run inside the rooms, and must only run if they are outside. However, I have noticed that my centre does not make children take off their shoes before entering the room and there are often children wearing shoes inside. Also, if a child happens to be lying on the floor, for instance in our small mat time area, I have seen on multiple occasions that teachers will step over the children instead of going around them. I am now aware that this is against Maori protocol.

THINK

Since learning about Tikanga Maori, I have realised that my centre is not fully successful in implementing it. Although some protocols are followed, others are not. And although I am only in the centre for a few hours a week, I wonder if the other staff members even know all of the Maori protocols because I have not heard them being mentioned to children. I don't think it is a negative attitude from the staff that has made them not teach protocols, but simply a lack of knowledge or understanding of how to implement them. In our centre, we currently have no Maori children or staff members, and so the other children of the centre are not really aware that their are Maori protocols to follow.

CHANGE

"Staff should support Tikanga Maori and the use of the Maori language." (Ministry of Education, 1996, p.55)
Upon reflection of my centre, I have realised that changes need to be made in regards to the implementation of Tikanga Maori. Now that I have learnt about Tikanga Maori practices, I will definitely be introducing them to my staff members and the children. To make sure I do not overstep my position as a student, I will first talk to my manager and staff members about introducing protocols and make sure we are all on the same page. Then we can work together to make strategies for teaching children about Tikanga Maori.


References

Ministry of Education (1996). Te Whāriki: He Whāriki Mātauranga mō ngā Mokopuna o Aotearoa: Early Childhood Curriculum. Wellington, New Zealand: Learning Media.