Lyra Parata-Mercer is being exposed to te reo Māori at just 9 months old.
The toddler was at Mosgiel Library’s bilingual story time, Wa Korero Reorua, yesterday, where children were read a combination of books in Māori, English and sign language.
Her grandmother Kay Mercer said her mother was Kai Tahu and her father was European so she wanted her granddaughter to be immersed in both cultures.
Librarian assistant Kerri Hayes said she read stories and sang waiata to make it a fun experience for the tamariki.
She said it was extremely important for children to be exposed to te reo Māori because it was New Zealand’s original language.
‘‘That way it can prepare them for school and then eventually into adulthood in the working environment as well.’’
Ms Mercer said she could tell by the toddlers’ reactions they were engaged and learning.
‘‘Their interactions with me are just absolutely special.’’
‘‘It can be challenging at times but the more you use it the better you become.’’
She felt there was a lot of mana and prestige in being able to integrate both languages into your work environment but also your personal life and daily activities.
