The warmth and glow on Diwali comes not from candles but from the feeling of TOGETHERNESS.
What does Diwali mean to you and your child? Wearing good clothes? Hulla Gulla? Eating sweets? All this is definitely a part of the festival but the real aspect, which makes Diwali so special for all of us, is togetherness. Lets make our child realize the importance and meaning of this togetherness.
Togetherness with the family: Invite your child to join you while decorating the house, making mithai, lighting diyas, packing gifts, making rangoli, painting Diwali card for grandparents. Let him feel Diwali is all about doing little things with the family members.
Togetherness with God: Children are usually not interested in the custom of Puja and often question its logic. Tell your child that the puja is all about reconnecting with God, thanking him for all he has given. Infusing this spirit depends upon how respectfully and whole-heartedly you do the puja yourself.
Togetherness with friends: Show your child that more important than giving gifts to friends is meeting and expressing love for them. Let your child realize exchanging gifts is not a mere custom but a way to give and take love.
Togetherness with the poor and the needy: You need to tell your child that there are people who are not as fortunate as he is to have anything he wants to on Diwali. Take your child along to distribute clothes, sweets etc. amongst needy people.Let him realize sharing doesn't reduce but multiplies happiness.
Togetherness with our environment: Children need to be made to understand that burning crackers can hurt them and the people around; disturb the sick and the elderly; cause extensive air, land and noise pollution. Tell him how harmful this pollution can be for the people of the world. Make him realize that the real celebration lies in togetherness and not material things.
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sudhagupta@mothersprideonline.com Selected questions will win 'Celebrate Childhood' by Sudha Gupta. HAPPY PARENTING Click below for more articles
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