Te Whāriki Strands and Goals
The strands and goals arise from the four principles. The whāriki is woven from these four principles and from the following five strands, or essential areas of learning and development. The principles and strands together form the framework for the curriculum. Each strand has several goals. Learning outcomes have been developed for each goal in each of the strands, so that the whāriki becomes an integrated foundation for every child's development.
Strand 1:
Wellbeing/Mana Atua
The health and well-being of your child is protected and nurtured. Your child experiences an environment where their health is promoted; emotional well-being is nurtured and they are kept safe from harm.
Strand 2:
Belonging/Mana Whenua
Children and their families feel a sense of belonging. Children and their families experience an environment where connecting links with the family and the wider world are affirmed and extended; they know that they have a place; feel comfortable with the routines, customs, and regular events; and they know the limits and boundaries of acceptable behaviour.
Strand 3:
Contribution/Mana Tangata
Opportunities for learning are equitable, and your child's contribution is valued. Your child experiences an environment where there are equitable opportunities for learning, irrespective of gender, ability, age, ethnicity, or background. He/she is affirmed as an individual and encouraged to learn with and alongside others.
Strand 4:
Communication/Mana Reo
The languages and symbols of your child's own and other cultures are promoted and protected. Your child experiences an environment where he/she develops non-verbal and verbal communication skills for a range of purposes; experience the stories and symbols of their own and other cultures; and discover and develop different ways to be creative and expressive.
Strand 5:
Exploration/Mana Aotùroa
Your child learns through active exploration of the environment. Your child experiences an environment where his/her play is valued as meaningful learning and the importance of spontaneous play is recognised. Through this exploration your child will confidence in and control of their bodies; learn strategies for active exploration, thinking, and reasoning; and develop working theories for making sense of the natural, social, physical, and material worlds.