Meeting the goals of Te Whariki through music in the early childhood curriculum

Abstract

This workshop will be based on a published article with the same title, written by the presenters (AJEC Vol 33 No 1, March 2008). The purpose of this interactive workshop is to examine the strands and goals which arise from the four principles of 'Empowerment; Holistic Development; Family and Community and Relationships' (Te Whariki, 1996) and to workshop some ideas of how music can be used in an integral way, not only to meet the stated goals but to promote them to their fullest potential. It also presents a challenge to early childhood educators to consider making greater, intentional use of music appropriately and relevantly throughout their programs and their day-to-day activities. There is often the tendency to limit music to mat time or to sporadic use of rhythmic clapping or singing throughout the day, without a conscious understanding of how these activities link to the strands and the goals of Te Whariki.