Traditions, Tales, and Treats: 7 Fun Ways to Celebrate Indian Festivals with Children

India has 22 official languages and 700 tribes, translating to diversity, infinite possibilities and a melting pot of cultures. This includes several traditions and customs and a wide range of festivals celebrated across the country. While Diwali, Navratri and Holi are very popular, many deserve more spotlight, such as Lohri, Basant Panchami, Pongal and Bihu. Irrespective of the fiesta, here are some fun ideas to celebrate any occasion with your young ones:

1. Story time

Utilize the time around festivals as a good opportunity to narrate the significance associated with them for your children. Explain how the stories are connected with the overarching theme of the festival and the values they must learn from them.  For instance, you can teach them about the different stories associated with Diwali, namely Lord Krishna killing Narakasura and Lord Rama returning to Ayodhya after a long exile. The underlying theme is the victory of light over darkness and the values to learn are hope and gratitude.

2. Sing and dance

Make use of the music or dance forms that are particularly linked to the festivals. Navaratri and Garba go hand in hand, while people move to the beats of Bhangra during Lohri. You can teach them steps from the local dance forms and form a dance routine around them. Another option is bhajans or devotional songs, where you can support them with the lyrics and make them sing in sync with the tune. These are usually dedicated to various deities and can be sung as a standalone hymn or a sequence of songs. 

3. Design greeting cards

As we progress towards a paper-free world, sending greeting cards during festivals is a charmingly old-school yet thoughtful gesture. Encourage children to craft out customized messages and design cards, and let them distribute those cards to near and dear ones. It is a good opportunity to engage them with work and stimulate their creativity. You can ask them to come up with tailored notes of appreciation or thanks. This is an activity that is sure to be loved by both the giver and receiver. 

4. Decorate with rangolis

Rangolis are a common fixture in Indian homes, irrespective of the festival. They are drawings made of colour powders, flower petals or even natural materials. They are usually created on the floor of houses and are a great way to relieve stress. An additional benefit is that the activity allows all members of the family to work together, which creates more room for enjoyment and harmony. The process also encourages mindfulness and focus and stimulates creativity.

5. Craft garlands

Teach your children how to make garlands by getting them diverse types of flowers and stringing them together. You can let them experiment with the available colours and create unique colour schemes of garlands. A good starting point can be with flowers like jasmine, marigold, rose and hibiscus. The benefits of this exercise are that children can enhance their fine motor skills and learn more about symmetry. Monitor them periodically since the process involves sharp instruments such as needles or scissors, which may cause harm if not used properly.

6. Prepare festive foods

Make a list of special foods related to the approaching festivals. Spend some time and make your child understand the concept behind the festivals and the famous dishes associated with them. Supervise your child as they attempt to understand your instructions step-by-step and create magic with delicious food. This will not only nurture their self-reliance but also deepen their connection with the spirit of the festival.

7. Perform role plays

Since most festivals have stories connected with their origin, it is simple to engage your children in this activity. Choose an interesting story and narrate it entirely to them and list out the characters involved in the story. Young ones can come up with their version of dialogue based on the plot and enact it in front of the rest of the family. This will serve as a good chance for them to learn more about mythology and the festival, as well.

Festivals are indeed a wonderful time to have fun with family, eat yummy dishes and make memories for life. Take some extra time to plan and make your children feel included in the grand scheme of things. This will help them connect with their roots and culture, while also enabling them to pass down memories and traditions to future generations.

Get ready with that festival checklist!