Matariki Storytime at the Howick Library

To enhance the children's learning of Matariki (Maori new year) we organised a trip to the Howick library for Matariki storytime. The children were talking about it all morning and after lunch we all loaded into the KCC vans and off we went.  When we arrived at the library, we were directed to the storytime area where we were sat down and greeted.  Mama Pepe and Tao special visitors from the Museum told us a story about a rat, octopus and shark which was very interesting, we then got to colour in our very own pictures of the rat and octopus and make our own hula skirts to do some hula dancing.  What a great way to spend the afternoon and a great learning opportunity, many thanks to the staff at Howick library for the invitation.

  

  

  

He Waiata Tamariki

Matariki Stars and Koru Patterns

Matariki Stars

Koru Patterns

Painted Toast for Morning Tea!

Learning to Harakeke (flax) weave with Nicole

Checking out the ice in the playground!!

Authentic Indian Food

Cottage Cheese Curry with Rice

Recently we have been focusing on baking and cooking in Phoenix house.  Related to this topic children are enjoying to cook and bake different things. Today we cooked authentic Indian food.  Children were so excited to see different utensils, cooking style and ingredients such as curry powder, cumin seeds, turmeric, red chilly powder, dry fenugreek leaves, and Indian cottage cheese as they do not usually see these at home.  It was all team work; children helped me in cooking by mixing and chopping. Everybody enjoyed curry and rice and asked for another serve. Wow !