Deepawali, or Diwali, is a festival of lights that brings joy, color, and a sense of community to families around the world. For children, it’s an exciting time filled with festivities, sweets, and vibrant decorations. Engaging kids in fun activities and crafts not only enhances their understanding of this beautiful festival but also fosters creativity and family bonding. Here are some delightful activities that will keep the young ones entertained while helping them learn about the significance of Deepawali.
This is 13th Blog in series of total 16 blogs exploring about Kids’ Deepawali, Fun Crafts and Activities.
DIY Diyas – Crafting Light
One of the most iconic symbols of Deepawali is the diya, or oil lamp. Making diyas can be a fun and creative activity for kids.
Materials Needed
- Air-dry clay or playdough
- Paints or markers
- Glitter (optional)
- Small tea lights or cotton wicks
- Decorative beads or stones
Instruction
- Shape the Diyas
Kids can roll the clay into small bowls or traditional diya shapes.
- Decorate
Once shaped, they can paint and decorate their diyas with glitter, beads, or any other craft materials.
- Light Them Up
Once dry, place a small tea light inside or use a cotton wick with oil to make it functional.
This activity not only allows kids to explore their artistic side but also teaches them about the significance of lighting diyas during the festival.
Rangoli Art – Colorful Designs
Rangoli is a beautiful art form created at the entrance of homes to welcome guests and deities. Involving children in making rangoli designs can be a wonderful way to introduce them to this tradition.
Materials Needed
- Colored powders (or rice flour, chalk, or flower petals)
- Stencils (optional)
- Small bowls for powders
- Water for creating a paste (optional)
Instructions
- Choose a Design
Help kids choose or draw a simple rangoli design on paper.
- Create the Rangoli
Using colored powders, let them fill in the designs on the floor or a tray.
- Personalize
Encourage them to add their own elements, like flowers or leaves, to make it unique.
Creating rangoli helps children appreciate the beauty of tradition while allowing them to express their creativity.
Festive Card Making -Spreading Joy
Encouraging kids to make festive greeting cards for friends and family is a wonderful way to instill the spirit of giving.
Materials Needed
- Blank cards or colored paper
- Stickers, glitter, and decorative items
- Markers or colored pencils
- Glue
Instructions
- Design the Card
Kids can fold colored paper to create a card. They can draw or write festive messages inside.
Decorate: Use stickers, glitter, and other craft materials to embellish the card.
- Share
Encourage them to write personal notes for their friends or family members to spread the joy of Deepawali.
This activity helps children practice their writing and artistic skills while understanding the importance of sharing happiness during the festival.
Cooking Simple Treats – Sweets and Snacks
Involving children in cooking can be a delightful and educational experience, especially when it comes to making traditional sweets and snacks for Deepawali.
- Simple Recipes to Try
- Rice Krispies Ladoo
- Mix rice krispies with melted marshmallows and shape them into small balls.
- Chakli (Murukku)
- If they’re a bit older, you can involve them in making this crunchy snack with the help of an adult.
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients
- Gather all the ingredients needed for the chosen recipe.
- Cooking Together
- Involve them in mixing, shaping, and decorating the sweets.
Taste Testing
Let them enjoy the fruits of their labor by tasting the treats together.
Cooking not only teaches kids about traditional recipes but also fosters teamwork and enhances their culinary skills.
Diwali Story Time – Learning Through Stories
Storytelling is a great way to help children understand the cultural and spiritual significance of Deepawali.
Suggested Stories
- The return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya
- The story of Goddess Lakshmi and her blessings
- The victory of Lord Krishna over Narakasura
Activity
- Story Sessions
Set aside time for a family story session where adults narrate these tales.
- Role Play
Encourage kids to act out the stories, using simple costumes or props to make it interactive.
This activity can ignite their imagination and instill moral values while connecting them to their cultural heritage.
Nature Crafts – Eco-Friendly Decor
Deepawali is not just about lights and sweets; it’s also an opportunity to teach children about being eco-conscious. Creating decorations from natural materials can be a fun and educational activity.
Materials Needed
- Leaves, flowers, and twigs
- Glue and paper
- Paint (optional)
Instructions
- Collect Materials
Take a nature walk with kids to collect colorful leaves and flowers.
- Create Art
Use these materials to create wall hangings, greeting cards, or decorative pieces.
- Educate
Discuss the importance of preserving nature while celebrating.
This hands-on activity emphasizes creativity and environmental responsibility, instilling a sense of care for the planet.
Lighting Up the Night – A Family Celebration
As the sun sets on Deepawali, gathering as a family to light diyas and candles can be a heartwarming experience.
Activity
- Light Diyas Together
Involve kids in placing diyas around the house, emphasizing the significance of light in dispelling darkness.
- Make Wishes
Encourage them to make wishes while lighting each diya, fostering positivity and hope.
- Share Stories
As you light up, share stories about why we celebrate Deepawali, making the moment special.
This activity can create lasting memories and instill a sense of belonging and joy in celebrating the festival together.
Conclusion
Deepawali is a festival filled with traditions and meanings that can be beautifully shared with children through engaging activities and crafts. By involving kids in these fun and educational experiences, you not only introduce them to the cultural significance of Deepawali but also foster creativity, teamwork, and a sense of community.
This Deepawali, let’s light up not just our homes with diyas, but also the minds and hearts of our little ones, guiding them to understand and cherish the essence of this joyous festival. Happy Deepawali!