Midwife (Māori: kaiwhakawhānau) in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “midwifekaiwhakawhānaunoun” in NZSL refers to a midwife, a professional who assists in childbirth and provides care to mothers before, during, and after giving birth. This sign is often used in discussions about pregnancy, childbirth, and maternal health within the New Zealand Deaf community.

How to Sign “MidwifekaiwhakawhāNaunoun” in NZSL

1. Start with both hands in a “C” shape, palms facing each other.
2. Position your hands near your chest, with elbows bent.
3. Move your hands outward in a gentle arc, maintaining the “C” shape, as if cradling a baby.
4. As you make this movement, express a warm smile or a gentle facial expression to convey care and support.

Common Mistakes

• Using flat hands instead of the “C” shape, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Moving the hands too quickly, which may make the sign difficult to understand.
• Forgetting to use facial expressions, which are important for conveying the emotional context of the sign.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “midwifekaiwhakawhānaunoun” focuses on the nurturing aspect of a midwife, using both hands to represent care. In contrast, ASL may use a different handshape and movement to depict the role of a midwife, often focusing more on the action of assisting in birth.

Related Signs

• (Be) Born, (Give) Birth – Sign related to the act of childbirth.
• (Baby’S) Dummy – Sign for a pacifier commonly used for infants.
• (All Of) You – A sign used for addressing a group.
• (Be) Careful – Sign used to express caution.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “midwifekaiwhakawhānaunoun” in a sentence?

You can say, “The midwife helped during the delivery” by signing “midwife” followed by the signs for “help” and “delivery.”

Are there regional variations for this sign in New Zealand?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regions may have slight variations in hand movement or facial expressions based on local Deaf culture.

What are some similar signs to “midwifekaiwhakawhānaunoun”?

Similar signs include “birth,” “baby,” and “care,” which all relate to maternal and child health.

What tips can help me learn this sign better?

Practice with a partner, focus on facial expressions, and watch videos of fluent signers for better understanding.

Can I use this sign in formal settings?

Yes, “midwifekaiwhakawhānaunoun” is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, especially when discussing healthcare.

Is this sign influenced by te reo Māori?

Yes, NZSL incorporates elements from te reo Māori, and the cultural context of the sign reflects the significance of midwives in Māori culture.