Last week, our students gathered to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, with a lively day of hands-on activities that encouraged cultural exploration, creativity, and global awareness. The day opened with a reading of Binny’s Diwali, a vibrant picture book that follows a young girl as she shares Diwali traditions with her class. This story helped students learn about the holiday’s roots and significance, and students who personally celebrate Diwali added their own unique perspectives, explaining family traditions, customs, and the deeper meanings behind the festival.
Students then dove into a series of activity stations, each celebrating different elements of Diwali and other global themes. At the lantern-making station, students created colorful lanterns representing the Diwali theme of inner light and hope. They also designed intricate rangoli chalk art, carefully crafting vibrant patterns on the floor, which symbolized beauty, joy, and the warmth of community.
Beyond Diwali, students explored other important topics in several themed stations. The Indigenous Peoples station honored indigenous communities and shared information about their history and traditions. At the World Mental Health Day station, students engaged in activities to promote emotional well-being and self-care. Finally, the United Nations Day station highlighted the importance of global unity and understanding, encouraging students to think about their role in creating a more inclusive world.
By the end of the day, students had not only celebrated Diwali but had also deepened their appreciation of cultural diversity and global awareness. This meaningful celebration helped “light up” their learning with creativity, curiosity, and connection, making it an unforgettable Festival of Lights for all involved.