Diwali came alive at the Waitā Room! Tamariki and whānau explored creativity, culture, and community through rangoli, diyas, henna, and dance, fostering diversity, connection, and joy in an inclusive celebration of light and learning.
The Waitā Room was filled with joy, colour, and light as we celebrated Diwali — the Festival of Lights. Together, tamariki and their whānau engaged in a range of rich cultural experiences that highlighted creativity, connection, and community spirit.
The children expressed their creativity by making diyas using colourful dyes on doily papers, creating firework-inspired art, and designing beautiful rangoli patterns with colourful chalks. Their fine motor skills and artistic expression shone as they explored patterns, colours, and textures.
We were delighted to have some parents join the celebration, sharing their time and culture with us. They helped tamariki create rangoli designs, do henna patterns, read stories from Indian culture about the meaning and traditions of Diwali, and even danced together with the children to joyful Diwali songs. This created a warm, inclusive atmosphere where everyone could share in the spirit of togetherness and joy.
Through this celebration, tamariki developed an appreciation for diversity and cultural traditions, while strengthening their sense of belonging. They learned that every culture has unique ways of celebrating love, light, and goodness.
Links to Te Whāriki:
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Belonging | Mana Whenua – Children and their families experience an environment where cultural diversity is celebrated, and everyone feels included.
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Communication | Mana Reo – Children develop verbal and non-verbal communication skills as they express themselves through art, dance, and storytelling.
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Contribution | Mana Tangata – Children and whānau work together, sharing ideas and participating in group experiences that strengthen relationships and understanding.