Te Tiriti o Waitangi upholds te ao Māori perspectives of holistic development that are, “… closely interwoven and interdependent” ('Te Whāriki', page 19). This is reflected in 'Te Whāriki' Principle of Kotahitanga | Holistic development which emphasises the connection of whatumanawa (emotional) and wairua (spiritual) to hinengaro (cognitive), tinana (physical), social and cultural dimensions. “Because children develop holistically, they need a broad and rich curriculum that enables them to grow their capabilities across all dimensions” ('Te Whāriki', page 19).
Identity, language and culture and the Whānau tangata | Family and community principle of 'Te Whāriki' are also significant to this area. For many cultures, the emotional and spiritual world are inseparable. For some, spiritual connectedness determines who we are as a collective, for others, spiritual connectedness is individual. Within 'Te Whāriki' the importance of the spiritual dimensions is noted as significant for Māori and Pacific peoples. Kaiako, working in partnership with whānau and aiga, support learning that is authentic and meaningful.
Teaching inclusively removes barriers to participation and learning. There are a range of practices that can support children’s emotional awareness, regulation and spiritual connectedness, including giving children the language and vocabulary to articulate emotional expressions, as well as cultural customs, religious rituals, mindfulness practices, and fostering connections with people and nature. Kaiako can ensure an inclusive environment by understanding what these practices look like for each child and creating reciprocal connections between home and the early learning setting.
