Teaching yourself (and your children) Te Reo

Talking Matters NZ recommends reading books in Te Reo Māori with your tamariki (children) is an easy way to introduce new kupu (words). Ahakoa iti, akona, korerohia – learn a little, use a little. Give pēpi and tamariki space to take a turn and take time to describe the pictures.

Children learn so much from taking part in a conversation. A turn doesn’t have to be a word for little ones. Noises, body language and pointing count. We are very lucky in New Zealand that there are plenty of books available in both te reo Maori and bi-lingual languages for all ages.

Visit your local library for some pukapuka ideas or use the Auckland Library catalogue to order books online. Also, Te Papa Tongarewa has a Te reo Maori pukapuka mahi (Maori language activity book) to download. This is a great way to involve the whole whanau!

Here are some other online resources you may find useful:

• Kidspot – Learning Te Reo Māori
• NZ History – 100 Māori Words
• Māori Language.net

If you’re keen to try more formal learning, here’s a great resource to help you find a course near you.