Grandparents are an important part of a child's socialization in Polynesian culture.
Migrating from Samoa approximately 2,000 years ago, Polynesians spread their culture throughout Tahiti and the surrounding 100-plus islands, eventually reaching Hawaii and New Zealand. While subtle differences in socialization and education exist between the island cultures, they share many common traits.
Socialization--Approximately 2,000 Years Ago
Children in Polynesian families were traditionally raised in large, loving families and before they could walk, their care was shared with the other children in the village. Much of a child's early socialization happened in these large "play groups" of siblings and neighboring children.
Socialization--Now
Socialization in today's Polynesian children still happens in self-made peer groups and through the impact of less closely related kin. Children continue to be raised with the assistance of grandparents, siblings and other family members. Because of their strong belief in a child's independence, parental influence in the teaching of a child is limited.
Education--2,000 years ago
Early Polynesian education involved skill trades and crafts, like tattooing and canoe making. Grandparents were influential in young children's education and provided technical training and taught them the traditional lore. Schools covered sacred learning for those who were training to be priests.
Education--Now
The current literacy rate in Polynesia is 98.8 percent, and school is required from ages 6 to 14. Adult education is free. Western-style education is now typical, and many islanders attend colleges in and out of the area.
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