Oracy Aotearoa New Zealand

This week we’re celebrating the small, steady acts that help tamariki find their voice — from volunteers reading stories, to kaiako modelling rich kōrero every day. Thank you to everyone in our community who believes in the power of talking, listening, and connecting.

It's Volunteer Week, and time to say a heartfelt thanks to everyone around the motu who's giving their time and energy to great causes.

Ka pai te mahi Motueka Kindergarten! We think these wonderful tamariki are going to ace it.

Whānau question 💬
When does your child talk the most?
▪️ during play
▪️ at mealtimes
▪️ while reading
▪️ or somewhere else?

The early years matter.
Between ages 3 and 6, children are developing the language they’ll use to learn, connect, and advocate for themselves.
This is the age group Oracy Aotearoa New Zealand exists to support.

Some of the most powerful language moments happen in ordinary places — at the dinner table, in the car, during bath time, or while playing.
You don’t need special resources. You just need time, attention, and conversation.
Supporting whānau to feel confident in these moments sits at the heart of our work.

When we talk about oracy, we’re talking about more than talking.
We’re talking about children learning to express ideas, listen to others, build relationships, and make sense of their world.
These skills begin forming well before school — and they grow through everyday conversations with the adults around them

Some great tips and advice here on how to get young tamariki to engage and talk. Do you have any hot tips from your children, or moko?

Don't ask 'what did you do at school today?' Why it's not the best opener, and six other ideas to break the ice from people who spend a lot of time hanging out with little kiddos.