Frequently asked questions
How long are the sessions?
Most sessions total 90 minutes. 30 minutes of structured learning, but not so structured that you feel made to do this and that; followed by 60 minutes of eating, unstructured play and time to chat.
What do I bring?
Bring a water bottle for your tamaiti. The rest is supplied. If your tamaiti has allergies, while most groups will cater the ‘eating’ by way of fruit and rice crackers, they cannot guarantee there won’t be cross contamination with gluten, dairy or eggs. We've asked all groups to refrain from serving peanuts or using peanuts in take home gifts. Check when you call to find out the time and cost details as to what the local group already caters for. We encourage you to take alternative kai. We know it’s difficult for tamariki to see others with kai they're not allowed – help your tamaiti overcome this in preparation for social situations and school. Allergies, as with disabilities, are one of those things our tamariki have to learn about – life isn't always fair and isn't always going to be fair.
When can we start?
Any time in the year. You’re not coming ‘part way’ into a curriculum.
Do I have to join a roster?
Not as a rule. Some groups run short on volunteer help from time to time and value the input of grown-ups in these moments. Some people love to share their baked kai and offer to contribute a cake, cookies or biscuits. That’s really up to you!
How much does a session cost?
Each mainly music operates independently with a group of dedicated volunteers bringing fun for your whānau. Most mainly music sessions cost about the same as ONE Happy Meal for ONE whānau. Try feeding your family on one Happy Meal! Sessions represent great value.
Can I bring children I care for during the day?
The simple answer is yes. However, there is a limit to this. As sessions are primarily for whānau or kuia and their tamariki, some groups will have a specific number of spaces for those who care for tamariki during the day. As each group is autonomous and has a fluctuating number of volunteers, it’s best to make contact by phone, to ascertain whether there are spaces available. It is expected that carers will engage with tamariki they bring throughout the session.
There is an expectation carers will complete a registration for each tamaiti to ensure appropriate emergency numbers are recorded, and that payment of whanau cost will be made for each whānau represented. This helps cover the cost of gifts taken home at the celebration moments of the year. We recommend carers ask whānau to pay for this cost, knowing participation at sessions will enrich development and education. Knowing that carers can attend with up to four tamariki, volunteers will often help through contributing to the session interaction.
Can we film sessions or take photos, post to social media?
We know everyone loves to get those special shots of their tamaiti. Whether its footage or a photo, please check with the Session Facilitator before you start (if the session has started, you'll need to wait until the next week). Some tamariki are in care and cannot be photographed; some mātua are in vocations where it is dangerous for their tamaiti to be featured in social media. Please note that waiata and books are copyright and therefore filming more than a small portion of waiata, rhyme or story could constitute a breach of copyright – you’re allowed to film 10% which amounts to around 20 seconds. Thanks for helping us in this situation.
What age should I start my tamaiti?
In mainly music, you can start your tamaiti from birth! Seriously, if you need to get out of the house – come!!! Once your pēpi becomes more interested (or even is awake!) during the sessions, bounce, swing and sway your pēpi, move their hands to the movements. Bring a blanket so pēpi can lie down on the floor while you move props above their head or while on their tummy, in front of them. And once the pēpi becomes a toddler, they'll be keen to participate.
In mainly play, again, you can come and join in. Your pēpi will appreciate the noise, the stimulation, and you’ll find kai (the coffee and cake), along with korero, enjoyable. It’s amazing to realise that pēpi don’t stay little for long. And before you know it, your tamaiti will be keen to participate in the activities.
Can I bring my older home-schooled tamariki?
Both mainly music and mainly play are designed for whānau with tamariki under the age of five years. Having tamariki attend who are outside of this age group may be disruptive, purely because they become bored. If your tamariki have their schooling delivered from home, it is recommended they join another family in a similar learning environment or bring lesson material that can be worked on at the back of the room of the building along with their own kai. Giving them an indication that mainly music and mainly play are for little ones will inspire them to remain focused on their learning and enjoy watching tamariki waiata/make craft and play.