The term "Köhanga Reo" literally translates as language nest. I believe this term is most appropriate. Having my daughter as part of three different köhanga reo whänau has shown the love and support that is so inherent to a kohanga.

While it is the "Mäori equivalent" of child-care centre, it is not just a place to drop off your children. If you choose to send your child to köhanga, then you are choosing to become part of the decision-making / fundraising / administrative processes for that köhanga. You will spend many hours at monthly meetings where the day-to-day running of the köhanga is discussed, as well as both utilising your skills to help in fundraising (or other mahi) and developing new skills. In the end, it is all worth it. Being so involved in your child's education strengthens you as a parent and demonstrates to your child the interest that you have in their well-being. There were tears of farewell at the last köhanga my daughter was at - and promises to keep in touch. In short, I believe if you truly support the kaupapa, you will be enriched by the experience.

There is an indepth explanation about what köhanga is, where it came from and how it has developed at the official site for Köhanga Reo - http://www.kohanga.ac.nz