Some pathways forward

Plan ahead - know where you are going to start and get the reo phrases and vocabulary that you are going to need ready. Check out He Arataki for a great way of how to do this.

Get to some classes

Up-skilling in te reo is a great way to get the whānau on board with what you have committed to doing at home. There are now classes available for all levels of fluency, make it a whānau thing and take everyone so that you are all learning together. Check out our links page to see where the providers are in your region or ring the Māori Language Commission for more advice on how you can find reo Māori programme providers in your region.

Find some reo Māori speaking friends

A great way to support your whānau to use the reo is to show them that there are other families who are doing the same thing. By planning outings with these whānau or even just hanging out at home with them or down at the local park it will give the kids a chance to see that they aren't abnormal and that there are other kids who are on the same journey. It's a great chance also for the kids to start using their reo with each other and build a Māori language bond between them.

Make a real commitment

Announce it to your friends and family and let them know that you and your family are going to become a reo Māori speaking household and how you are going to do it. Let them know if you want their help or support and what role you want them to play. Not only can they help you out along the way but they can also keep you in check and make sure you stay on track.