At Giggles Te Puke, the outdoor environment is a crucial part of the curriculum, with the māra kai (food garden) at its heart. This space is a hands-on learning environment where children engage with Papatūānuku (Earth Mother) and learn about the lifecycle of food.
- Learning and Growth: Children actively participate in planting, weeding, watering, and harvesting. This teaches them about kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and fosters a deep respect for the environment. The garden is a place where they learn that food comes from the soil, not just the supermarket.
- Community and Whānau: The produce from the garden is often shared with families, strengthening the connection between the centre and the wider community. Giggles also hosts community events like “Maara Kai Clean-Up Days” to get families involved and share knowledge about growing food.
- Curriculum Integration: The māra kai is integrated into the bicultural curriculum, aligning with Te Whāriki. Children learn te reo Māori and tikanga Māori (Māori customs) through practical, real-life experiences in the garden. This approach helps them become confident and capable learners.
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