The following shows how social inclusion and social action are woven through each of the strands of 'Te Whāriki'.
Children’s sense of responsibility for their own and others’ wellbeing can be intentionally fostered by kaiako in the early childhood setting, building a foundation for social inclusion and action. Children are empowered as active participants in creating a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. Children’s emerging identities as kaitiakitanga and caretakers of te taiao are supported by understanding rules and tikanga about respecting the environment.
A strong sense of belonging enables all children to feel included in meaningful ways and allows children to take an active role in welcoming others. Children develop a sense of themselves as members of the early learning community as well as a sense of themselves as global citizens, with rights and responsibilities. When children and adults get to know the local environment and make connections with important features such as waterways and mountains, they are more likely to engage in social action to care for and protect te taiao.
Every child has the right to equitable opportunities to contribute and participate in ways that work for them. Through interactions and relationships, children learn to take another’s point of view and develop the confidence to stand up for themselves and others. Children deserve opportunities to discuss and develop ideas about fairness, bias, inclusion and rights so that they can contribute to social inclusion and action in the learning community.
Communication is an important aspect of becoming connected and responsible members of a community. As children develop verbal and non-verbal communication throughout the early years they are increasingly able to participate in important social action such as advocacy, problem solving, negotiation and exchanges of ideas and perspectives. When children’s diverse languages and communication styles are recognised and supported by attuned kaiako, all children can be included.
Children are inherently curious and active explorers, motivated to connect with and care for others and the environment. It is critically important that kaiako foster children’s sense of responsibility and aroha for te taiao. Children make sense of their world by generating and refining working theories, using a range of strategies for critical thinking, reasoning and problem solving which lead to action.
