At Omana Kindergarten, we value the importance of cultural events and enjoy celebrating festivals together with our children and their families. In the weeks coming up to The Hindu Festival of Lights, Diwali, we provided lots of opportunities for the children to learn about the festival, and the meaning and importance of this celebration.

 

 

For two weeks before Diwali, the children prepared by taking part in experiences such as sewing, face painting, food preparation, floor art or Rangoli, and making beautiful clay diyas. We also listened to legendary stories about Diwali and explored how Diwali is celebrated in India and around the world

When the day arrived, we celebrated at Omana Kindergarten by lighting the clay diyas which the children had made, singing ‘Aayi Diwali’ and sharing delicious kai that children brought from home!

Te Whariki states that children and families feel a sense of belonging and feel comfortable with the routines, customs and rituals.  We foster ‘ako’ (teaching and learning) and ‘tuakana-teina’ (shared learning). While preparing for Diwali, we encouraged the children to ‘give new things a go’ and supported them in every possible way to gain confidence to achieve goals, to learn and to grow to their full potential. We had a wonderful day with our children and families and are looking forward to our next celebration!