Welcome to the Land of Greetings!

As the world becomes more connected, it’s more important than ever to cultivate an understanding and appreciation for different cultures within our families. A great way to do this is by learning to speak words and phrases from another language. And what better place to start than with the M?ori language, known as Te Reo M?ori, an official language of Aotearoa (New Zealand)?

Now, let’s dive into the warm world of M?ori greetings, which offers more than just a simple hello, but a wealth of tradition and respect for the person you’re speaking to. ?

A First Greeting: ‘Kia ora’ – The Universal Hello

If you’ve heard one M?ori phrase, it’s probably ‘Kia ora’. This lovely expression is more than just a greeting; it’s a wish for good health. ‘Kia ora’ can be used in most situations where you’d say hello, and it’s perfect for both formal and informal occasions. It’s a warm, friendly way to greet anyone, anywhere in New Zealand.

Let’s Practice: Pronouncing ‘Kia ora’

• Kia – sounds like the English ‘key’ followed by ‘ah’
• Ora – sounds like ‘or’ as in ‘for’ and ‘ah’

So, go ahead and say it with us: ‘Key-ah Or-ah’. Simple, right?

Encouraging your children to use ‘Kia ora’ can foster a sense of cultural respect and identity. It’s a beautiful step toward embracing a language that carries the essence of a nation.

More Than Hello: Other Useful M?ori Greetings

In-depth communication starts with a good foundation in greetings, and there’s a variety to choose from in M?ori. Here are a few more to enrich your family’s vocabulary:

• T?n? koe – This is a formal way to say hello to one person. It’s respectful and reflects M?ori values of acknowledging others.
• T?n? k?rua – This greeting is used when you’re saying hello to two people.
• T?n? koutou – And if you’re addressing three or more people, this is the greeting to use. It’s a beautiful way to include everyone in your hello.

But words are just the beginning. In M?ori culture, the way you greet someone – with openness, eye contact, and the sharing of breath – is as important as the words you use. Cultivating this approach with your children will help them understand the deep connections that greetings can forge between individuals and communities.

5 Things Parents Should Know About Greeting in M?ori

Preparation is key when teaching children new languages. Here are five essential things to consider as your family begins to say hello in M?ori:

1. Understanding the Significance:

   Greetings in M?ori are more than pleasantries; they are a way to acknowledge someone’s presence and mana (prestige, authority, control). Teach your children that when they say ‘Kia ora,’ they are doing more than saying hello; they are showing respect and making a connection.

2. Consistent Practice:

   Children learn through repetition. Incorporate M?ori greetings into your daily routine. You could start each day with a ‘Kia ora’ at breakfast or greet your child with ‘T?n? koe’ when they come home from school. Make it fun and regular!

3. Cultural Appreciation:

   Let your teachings go beyond the language. Discuss the traditions, history, and people of Aotearoa. Helping your child to understand the culture behind the words will give them a deeper appreciation for the greetings they’re learning.

4. Pronunciation Matters:

   Correct pronunciation respects the language and its speakers. Use online resources, listen to native speakers, and ask for guidance if you need it. Being a role model in this aspect encourages your child to value speaking well.

5. Non-verbal Cues Are Important:

   In M?ori culture, how you greet someone is as crucial as what you say. A smile, eye contact, and sometimes a hongi (the traditional M?ori greeting of pressing noses) show that you truly mean your greeting. As a family, practice not just the words but also the open and welcoming body language that accompanies them.

By bearing in mind these key points, you’ll help your children not only to learn a new language but also to grow with an open heart and mind towards other cultures.

Additional Resources for Learning M?ori

Fortunately, today’s technology makes learning a new language more accessible than ever. Here are some additional resources that can support you and your children on this linguistic journey:

• M?ori Language Apps: Apps like ‘Te P?manawa’ are great for interactive learning and often have spoken examples to ensure proper pronunciation.
• Children’s Books in M?ori: Many children’s books are available in both English and M?ori. Reading together can be an enjoyable way to pick up new words and phrases.
• Online Tutorials and Videos: Platforms like YouTube have a treasure trove of tutorials where you can hear native speakers and practice along with them.
• Community Classes: Look for community classes or workshops in your area – these are often held by local M?ori culture centers or libraries.

Keep exploring and you’ll find plenty of ways to make the learning process engaging and culturally enriching.