Diwali is just around the corner. Here are some fun ways to get the little ones involved, writes Marchelle Abrahams.
Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali (predicted to be on October 18 and 19) is celebration, marked by fireworks and feasts, observed by millions of people across the world. Its main theme is the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
Like any other religious celebration, Diwali is the perfect opportunity to teach the little ones about the holiday and why it is so important.
Here’s how to get them roped into the celebrations:
Light the way
Symbolic lamps (or paper lanterns) are an integral part of Diwali home decorations. They don’t require much time to make, but the finished product will have kids oohing and aahing at their creations.
Pinterest and DIY blogs are a good place to start for some fun inspiration. One such blog, sadtohappyproject.com, has a post called “20 Stunning DIY Paper Lanterns and Lamps to Brighten Your Home”, which provides hours of endless fun, using materials that can be found around your home.
Our favourite is the Owl-dorable paper lantern. Visit: http://sadtohappyproject.com/diy-paper-lanterns-and-lamps/
A Spoonful of Ideas shows you how to make a 3D statue of Ganesha using just paper cups. Picture: website screenshot
Say it with a gift
Instead of buying and exchanging gifts, why not make something special from the heart? Homemade treats and sweets are a thoughtful gift idea for someone with a sweet tooth and will have the kids saying: “I made that!” Paper cup Ganesha: Blogger Poornima Kulkarni has some great ideas.
See www.pinterest.ie/poornimakul/
Let them use their imagination
Dr Seuss once said: “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” Books enable children to broaden their horizons and learn about their culture and religion in a fun and constructive way.
There are lots of interesting reads out there, like The Diwali Gift, by Shweta Chopra and Shuchi Mehta; it’s a sweet festive story that introduces children to Diwali, the story focused on three child monkeys.
A Diwali Story, by Jonny Zucker, describes the activities of typical families as they celebrate some of their culture’s major holidays. The attractive illustrations are appealing.
