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Guardian Rouse Hill North celebrate Diwali with clay diyas and Rangoli
Freya Lucas
Oct 31, 2022
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The children and educators from Guardian Rouse Hill North recently came together to create clay diyas for Diwali, the Festival of Lights.
Diwali is a Hindu religious festival, which generally lasts five days, and is celebrated during the Hindu lunisolar months of Ashwayuja and Kartika.“Our memories from childhood inspired us to discuss Diwali with our teaching team, and they are always excited to celebrate with us,” a team member shared.
“We always plan intentionally to learn and share from other cultures at our centre, so we discuss what experiences and materials we could offer to children,” the team member added.
“From there, we share information on a few traditions that happen during Diwali, and each of us brings our passion to different experiences for the children and Educators to enjoy.”
Before creating the diyas with the children, staff explained to children what Diwali is about and how it is celebrated.
“It’s a time to celebrate with happiness and dedication of kindness. We decorate our own homes with lights, which is why we want to share that experience by creating diyas with the children.”
The team demonstrated how to make diyas out of clay, using their palms and fingers to give the clay shape to form a tiny bowl. After making the bowls, the children decorate their diyas using colourful beads and coloured rice.
Children and families also worked on Rangoli, a pattern-based art form that originated in India.“As we make Rangoli with the children, we talk to them about our childhood memories, encouraging respect for different cultures, and helping them develop their sense of identity in creating their individual Rangoli,” a team member shared.
“They are always so receptive to the experiences and inspire us to make Rangoli with natural resources such as leaves and flowers.”
“We are so happy that our team are excited to join us in celebrating and learning more about what is important to us.”
The service also conducted other Diwali-based activities including sharing videos of Indian dancing on the projector, decorating the foyer with flower garlands and lights, henna tattoos, traditional dress, and baking sweet treats.
To learn more about Diwali, please see here.
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