Kia Matua Rautia
Kia Matua Rautia affirms the collective responsibility of whānau, kaimahi, and communities to raise and protect tamariki.
Snapshot of Content
- Why the early years are wā whakahirahira (critical) for lifelong development
- How tamariki grow — tinana (body), roro (brain), ako (learning), hononga (relationships)
- Protective and risk factors that influence tamariki growth and resilience
- Mana, tapu, whakapapa, whanaungatanga, and mauri as foundations for wellbeing
- The role of kaimahi and collective care in supporting tamariki
Description
Kia Matua Rautia affirms the collective responsibility of whānau, kaimahi, and communities to raise and protect tamariki. Designed through an ao Māori lens and supported by western science, this workshop explores the early years as a time when loving, responsive relationships and safe, enriching environments lay strong foundations for lifelong growth.
Participants will reflect on how their professional roles can contribute to the collective care of tamariki, drawing on the wisdom of our tūpuna, who understood that tamariki are taonga with whakapapa, tapu, mana, mauri, and wairua from the very beginning. This session encourages kaimahi to integrate culturally grounded and evidence-informed practices that protect and strengthen tamariki potential.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand how early experiences shape tamariki development and wellbeing
- Reflect on insights from mātauranga Māori, tūpuna wisdom, and western science
- Recognise the importance of collective care, whānau and professional support, and strong relationship
- Identify ways their professional role can help protect and strengthen tamariki potential
Audience
Kaimahi Māori and professionals working with pēpi, tamariki and their whānau
Duration
- Half-day (4 hours) workshop
- Full-day (8 hours) workshop – extend your learning by adding our He Hīkoi Mahara wānanga or Ka Hao te Rangatahi workshop, creating a rich full-day experience