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Filipino Language Month at BestStart Oraha
In August 2024, our Centre was filled with excitement and joy as we commemorated Filipino Language Month (Buwan ng Wika). Our commitment to embracing and celebrating diverse cultures truly came to life through a series of engaging activities. To kick off the celebration, we decorated our Centre with vibrant Filipino-themed decorations. The children were immediately drawn into the festive atmosphere, which set the stage for a wonderful opportunity for discovery.
Storytelling and Language Exploration
One of the highlights was our storytelling session, where we introduced the children to a Filipino folktale, “Ang Pagong at Ang Kuneho” (The Turtle and The Rabbit), a story about perseverance and determination. They also learned “Tong Tong Tong Pakitong-Kitong,” a famous children’s song that depicts the movement of a giant crab, which is abundant in Philippine seas. The children were delighted to learn a few Filipino phrases, such as Salamat po! (Thank you), Magandang araw! (Beautiful day!), and Paalam! (Goodbye!).
Promoting Developmental Skills Through Puzzles
Our puzzle provocations were a hit, as the children explored and figured out how to solve the Philippine flag and Jeepney puzzles. These activities were not just about problem-solving but also about building skills and fostering social connections. We realised that the simplest tools could have the most profound impact as we continued to engage and educate our tamariki.
Filipino Food Fiesta
The celebration would not have been complete without a culinary exploration! We prepared Filipino dishes like pansit (stir-fried noodles), lumpia (vegetable spring rolls), pandesal (bread roll), leche flan (creme caramel), kutsinta, and puto (rice cakes) for ngā kaiako and tamariki to taste. This culinary experience provided a sensory introduction to Filipino food culture.
Palarong Pinoy (Traditional Filipino Games)
Exploring Filipino children’s games was a delightful way to promote essential skills. Games like Tumbang Preso (Knock Down the Can) and Hatakang Lubid (Tug of War) offer more than just fun; they help develop sportsmanship, agility, coordination, and strategic thinking. By introducing these games, ngā kaiako created engaging, culturally enriching experiences that support both physical and cognitive development in a fun, interactive way. Through play, we unlocked a world of learning opportunities.
Enrichment and Connection
At BestStart Oraha, we believe in fostering an environment where children can explore and embrace diversity. We are thrilled to see the children enjoying learning about representations and concepts that are valued by other cultures, broadening their understanding of the world. Each day, they left with a greater appreciation for the beauty of diverse cultures.
Discover the magic of cultural exploration at BestStart Oraha. Enrol with us for more enriching experiences and upcoming cultural adventures!