How to make the Makar Sankranti special for kids?
Makar Sankranti, celebrated as a harvest festival across India, is a day of joy, tradition, and togetherness. While the festival holds immense cultural significance, it can also be a wonderful opportunity to engage children and make the celebrations memorable for them.
Involve Them in Kite Flying
Kite flying is synonymous with Makar Sankranti and a favorite activity for kids. Encourage them to pick their favorite kites, from colorful traditional designs to modern LED-lit ones. Teach them the art of flying a kite, from tying the thread to maneuvering it in the wind. To make it more fun, organize a friendly competition among family members or friends.
Craft Festive Decorations
Engage kids in decorating the house with festive-themed DIY crafts. Use colorful papers, paints, and eco-friendly materials to create kites, rangoli designs, or lanterns. This activity not only keeps them occupied but also nurtures their creativity.
Introduce Festive Foods
Makar Sankranti is incomplete without its traditional delicacies like til-gur laddoos, chikkis, and khichdi. Involve kids in the kitchen by giving them simple tasks like rolling laddoos, shaping sesame candies, or mixing ingredients. Share stories about the significance of these foods to spark their curiosity about the festival’s traditions.
Teach the Festival’s Significance
Storytelling is a great way to connect kids with cultural roots. Explain the significance of Makar Sankranti in a fun and engaging manner. Use simple language to describe how the festival marks the transition of the sun into the Capricorn zodiac, bringing longer days and a new harvest season. Share regional stories and customs to broaden their understanding.
Organize Fun Games and Activities
Plan festival-themed games like a treasure hunt with clues related to Makar Sankranti traditions. You can also set up a kite-making workshop where kids design their own kites. These activities combine fun with learning and leave lasting impressions.
Create a Family Bonding Experience
Festivals are about spending quality time together. Plan a picnic or terrace gathering for kite flying, complete with festive snacks and music. Involve kids in rituals like donating food or clothes to the needy, teaching them the importance of sharing and kindness.
Dress Them in Ethnic Attire
Encourage kids to wear traditional outfits that reflect the festival’s cultural essence. You can turn this into a mini photoshoot session to make the day more special and capture memories.
Incorporate Eco-Friendly Practices
Teach kids the value of sustainability by using biodegradable kites and avoiding plastic strings. Explain how these choices help protect the environment and birds during the festival.
By involving kids in every aspect of the celebrations, from decorations to traditions, you create an enriching and joyous experience for them.
Makar Sankranti can be a perfect mix of fun, learning, and cultural bonding, ensuring the festival becomes a cherished memory for the little ones.