Activity: Planting with Matariki and Tupuānuku
Objective: To introduce tamariki to the concept of planting and the significance of Tupuānuku.
Materials:
- Small pots or containers
- Soil
- Seeds (e.g., flowers, vegetables, herbs)
- Pictures or images of Matariki and Tupuānuku
- Markers or crayons
- Water can
- Small gardening tools
- Colouring in pages
Instructions:
- Begin by introducing tamariki to Matariki and Tupuānuku. You could introduce tamariki to pictures or images of Tupuānuku and explain the significance of this star. You can share a story about how Tupuānuku represents food and plants that grow from the ground while Matariki signals the start of the Māori New Year.
- Talk to tamariki about the importance of planting and how it helps to grow food, flowers, and plants. Explain the process of planting a seed and how it needs soil, water, and sunlight to grow into a plant.
- Give each tamariki a small pot or container and some soil to fill it up to about ¾ full.
- Let the tamariki choose the seeds they want to plant and help them put it in the soil. Encourage them to gently press the seeds into the soil and cover them lightly with more soil.
- Once they have planted their seeds, tamariki could draw or colour a picture of Matariki and Tupuānuku on paper or card. You can help them by drawing an outline and letting the tamariki colour it in. (or use our download images).
- Place the pots in a sunny spot and water them regularly. Encourage the tamariki to check on their plants daily and observe how they grow over time.
- Use this opportunity to talk to tamariki about the importance of taking care of our environment and respecting nature.
Planting is a fun and engaging activity for tamariki. It not only introduces tamariki to the concept of planting but also helps them learn about the significance of Matariki and Tupuānuku. This activity encourages respect for nature and teaches tamariki about the importance of taking care of our environment.
https://teachertalk.org.nz/products/tupuanuku-tuff-tray-activity?_pos=1&_psq=tupu&_ss=e&_v=1.0
