Let's imagine – two words that open up a world of learning possibilities.

Kaiako from an Invercargill Pacific early learning service used digital platforms to encourage families to look to the cultural values, practices, and languages that are important to them. Kaiako highlighted that learning is more meaningful when children can draw on the cultural knowledge they already have.

Spending a little time with your child on “let’s imagine” is one way you can help them learn at home.

It invites children to:

• show others what they know and can do already
• develop memory through recreating an experience from the past
• practise for the real thing
• learn about empathy and different perspectives – to put yourself in another’s shoes
• increase skills and creativity over time by participating in activities.

In the video compilation you will see how encouraging imaginative play within familiar cultural contexts and values contributes to children’s confidence, enjoyment, and participation as learners in their homes.

Notice in the video:

• children thinking and planning together in their learning
• the learning about patterns and spacing, and how to work cooperatively
• sensory experiences in the learning
• cultural values such as tautua/service are important and can be seen through making food for the family and community.

With thanks to the Samoan, Kiribati, and Tongan families who shared the photographs of their tamariki learning at home.

Music in video composed by Eteuati Reupena.