Nga Kakano, a whanau guide to talking with your tamariki about sex and sexuality, is hot off the press, just in time for te wiki o te reo Maori (23 to 29 July).

Our Director Health Promotion Frances Bird says kaitiaki and whanau are the first educators of tamariki. “What they say and do matters – we hope that Nga Kakano provides an opportunity for whanau to discuss what is important to them and they want their tamaiti to know about who they are and their relationship with others.

“The creation stories, moteatea, whakapapa and purakau are rich with examples of how tipuna expressed themselves and their sexuality. Concepts such as whanau, whenua and whare tangata clearly express connections, roles and responsibilities to other people. ”

Ms Bird says Nga Kakano means “the seeds” and refers to tamariki as a storehouse of limitless potential. The guide, in English with Maori whakatauki, covers topics such as:

• Te Hokakatanga (sexuality)
• To Tamaiti (your child)
• Whanau (family)
• Te Ao Hurihuri (our changing society)
• Nga Patai Uaua (dealing with tricky questions)
• Kia Noho Haumaru to Tamaiti (keeping your Tamaiti safe)
• Ma wai hei Awhina (who can help).

Nga Kakano was developed with input from Maori across Aotearoa.

Nga Kakano is available on our website for free or up to 100 printed copies can be ordered from our online shop (postage and packaging costs apply).

Purchase or download Nga Kakano