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With the arrival of the festive season, a tangible enthusiasm permeates the atmosphere. Children exhibit considerable enthusiasm during Dussehra, characterized by vibrant idols, fireworks, festivals, and abundant enjoyment. Dussehra presents an excellent opportunity for children to acquire numerous moral teachings in a non-preachy manner. Presented is a convenient compilation of enjoyable Dussehra activities for youngsters.

Why is Dussehra celebrated?

First things first. It is important to let children know why Dussehra is celebrated in the first place and why those enormous idols are put up. It will leave a lasting impression on children to tell them that it celebrates the victory of lord Rama over Ravana, a ten-headed demon king who had abducted Lord Rama’s wife, Sita. In fact, the word Dussehra comes from the Sanskrit words dasha (“ten”) and hara (“defeat”), signifying the defeat of the 10-headed Ravana. The other two idols are that of Ravana’s brother Kumbhakarna and his son Meghnad. The festival, therefore, celebrates the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. Days before Dussehra, Ramleelas is enacted, where the battle between Rama and Ravana is depicted. This enactment of the story is indeed an excellent opportunity to introduce children to the epics and keep the conversation going much after Dussehra. Ramayana could well be added to your reading list with the child, in an age-appropriate manner.

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Dussehra Activities for Kindergarten

The answer to how to celebrate Dussehra lies in a wide range of activities that add to the fun while also offering learning opportunities for children.

1. Ramleela Performance

Engaging the children in illustrating scenes from the epic Ramayana is effective. Children often exhibit enthusiasm for assuming various roles and portraying diverse characters. In the process, they can also acquire knowledge about numerous facets of the Ramayana. Children observing the performance can derive significant benefits from the narrative and from witnessing their peers in their new personas.

2. Lessons from Ramayana

Subsequent to the performances, children may articulate the life lessons they have acquired. Children discussing these lessons can provide effective reinforcement.

3. Rangoli

Involve the children in making colorful Rangolis. You could use flowers or colors to make these lovely creations. This will not only enhance their motor skills but also be a good lesson in creativity, teamwork, and collaboration. This is likely to turn out to be the best Dussehra decoration idea.

4. Puppet Show

Activities for Dussehra in school can also include a puppet show depicting the major characters. There is, in fact, no better way to tell the story of Ramayana effectively and bring its many values to the fore. It can evoke a lot of fun and laughter, which is an added point.

5. Art and Craft Activity

Get the children to draw the main characters, including Ravana and his ten heads. Alternatively, you can also get them to create beautiful decorations. This can teach children the benefits of teamwork and creativity. For the children, seeing the school decorated with their handiwork can greatly reinforce their efforts. Dussehra board decoration can also be innovative, with flowers designed by children.

6. Reading

Engaging in storytelling and reading books that narrate the Ramayana in accessible English for youngsters is an excellent initiative. Reading to children early will cultivate a lasting appreciation for literature that extends well beyond infancy.

7. Ravana Dahan

Ravana Dahan can be organized in school. Alternatively, a giant Ravana effigy can be put up on which children can throw darts. It will once again offer you the opportunity to speak to them about the concept of good and evil, what Ravana’s 10 heads stand for, and more.

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8. Ethnic Dressing

It is also a day when children can don their ethnic attire. It is consistently delightful to observe them in their vibrant attire. Alternatively, you may have them don costumes of characters from the Ramayana and recite a few lines. It is assured that it will be a pleasure to observe.

9. A fair set up

A fair can also be organised at the school featuring attractions, activities, and delectable cuisine. It will undoubtedly be a day they will cherish.

Continue to monitor this space for other intriguing concepts. Footprints, a renowned chain of preschools and daycares, has become a favored ally for parents. The HighScope curriculum we use is scientifically developed, grounded in over 50 years of study on early childhood development, and dedicated to children’s holistic growth.