Kia Ora & Hello to the Parents and Whanau of Mt Royal Learning Centre

Thank you, whanau, and tamariki for supporting and participating in our fun-packed session this afternoon!! Very much appreciated for your effects in making Poi.  It was kind of our whanau to collect the materials in such short notice this morning. We Kaiako are so proud and thankful for you all!

All made sure we created the Poi using recyclable, household, and sustainable materials, making sure there was less stress on the family.

As stated by an American researcher Dr. Kate Riegle van West: “Poi is about the play at its core”. She also said “when anyone has access to Poi they immediately start to play, smile, move, and laugh. It can also do a lot to legitimise it as a therapeutic intervention”.

The American researcher also introduced Poi into hospitals, retirement villages and rehabilitation centres to help people increase their sense of happiness, play and as a way of introducing a sense of excitement into their day.

The reason for introducing Poi to our learning experience is to refresh and remind our tamariki that the Matariki festival/season is around the corner and it is nice for our little bodies to remember and acknowledge one of the most significant events in the Maori Calendar – this year it is said to be between the 13^th and 16^th of July.

For tomorrow’s session, please try to gather the following as we will be making our very own Korowai (Maori styled Cloak)

• Feathers (1 or 2)
• Leaves (in the general shape of a feather)
• Paper (any colour – newspaper also looks amazing)
• Scissors
• Coloured pencils.

Please do let us know regarding any ideas or feedback that you have regarding our online sessions. We would love to know all your feedback and thoughts regarding what we are doing in these online sessions. Your inputs are much appreciated.

Keep an eye out on our Facebook Page and on our Website and Educa for regular updates!

Parents you can now share the artwork of your child either by uploading photos either through Educa and through email.

Mt Royal Early Learning Centre continues to be open for children of families or caregivers who are essential workers and parents who are going back to work. Please do let Kavita know whether your child will be attending the centre. We cannot wait to see them!!

Remember – Stay Safe, Stay Home and love your bubble 😊 😊

Take care

Kavita and her team.