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Learning all about Diwali
On the first day if Diwali we had a special mat time where we discussed what continent India is on, how many days we celebrate Diwali and what Diwali is.
We learned that Diwali was the festival of lights, and there are many traditions that we follow in the lead up to Diwali. Each year Diwali falls on a different day and that is determined by the position of the moon.
We explored diyas and learned that on the second day of Diwali homes are decorated with them, and rangoli are created on the floor of the entrance to the home. I showed the tamariki what rangoli looked like on the ground by showing them pictures and showed them some pictures we could colour in Montessori to hang in the windows.
We also passed around some diyas so the children could explore how colourful and beautiful they were.
On the first day of Diwali, which was Monday, people clean their homes and decorate with fresh flowers. I had seven wonderful volunteers who helped me clean the whole classroom. They took all the materials off the shelf and ensured they got every last piece. It was fantastic hearing them plan together and figure out who was cleaning what. There was a lot of kotahitanga shared.
We also went out the front (thankfully it wasn't raining) and decorated our whole pathway with lots of rangoli. Rangoli is thought to bring good luck, prosperity on the house and in the family, and to welcome guests. Our tamariki worked so wonderfully ensuring they got every last piece.
We finished the week with making our own diya from clay and painting it later when it dried. We listened to Indian music and did some dancing, as well as some Henna designs - it was so much fun!
Here at BestStart Montessori Rongotai we place value on the role that cultural celebrations and festivals play in supporting children’s learning and development in every area of learning. Through simple craft and activity ideas children can be supported in beginning to understand the commonalities of human values that are shared by all cultures.
Diwali is an important occasion that marks the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. Being kind to yourself and others is very important here at Montessori, and helping someone who is struggling. We do our best to ensure this is understood by all in our environment:)