At Makoons Preschool, we strongly feel that the most effective way for kids to learn about our lovely festivals is by immersing themselves in some fun and engaging activities. So, we’ve combined a list of the top 10 Navratri activities for preschoolers and kids that are perfect for home and school.
What is the Navratri Festival?
Navratri, which means “nine nights,” is a special festival where we celebrate the power of goodness winning over evil. We worship Goddess Durga in her different forms. Each night is dedicated to a different Devi, each with her own special meaning. It’s a time for joy, prayer, and lots of dancing!
Why Do We Celebrate Navratri?
We celebrate Navratri to remember the story of how Goddess Durga battled a strong demon called Mahishasura for nine days and nights. On the tenth day, she came out victorious! This victory reminds us all that good will always win over bad if we are courageous and honest. It’s a celebration that fills us with hope and positivity.
Why is Celebrating Navratri Important for Kids?
Exposing children to festivals such as Navratri enables them to learn about our culture in a celebratory, non-stressful manner. They are taught the following through stories and Navratri for preschoolers:
- Values: Navratri teach us the value of Goodness, courage, and truth.
- Traditions: The importance of family, prayer, and community.
- Colours & Creativity: The festival is celebrated around all over India, and engage kids to learn about all the nine goddesses.
- Rhythm & Music: From the gentle beats of the Garba to the chants of the prayers.
Top 9 Navratri Activities for Kids (5 for Preschoolers + 4 for School Kids!)
Here are some navratri celebration ideas that are specially developed for small hands and large imaginations. They are easy, safe, and extremely enjoyable, and can be enjoyed by any age group.
5 Engaging Navratri Activities for Preschoolers
These activities are designed for little hands and big imaginations. They are safe, simple, and super fun!
1. Colourful Day-wise Crown Craft
Every day in Navratri has a specific colour. Ask your preschooler to make a simple paper crown and colour it with the colour of the day using crayons, stickers, or even glitter. This is an excellent means of teaching the days and colours. And also a perfect craft among all Navratri activities for preschoolers.
2. Playdough Devi Murtis
With non-toxic playdough, help your child roll out easy shapes of a goddess idol or a pot (Ghat). They can press and shape the dough, which is very good for their motor skills. This hands-on activity is a great sensory Navratri activity for preschoolers.
3. Dandiya Stick Decorating
Make some kid-safe, light Dandiya sticks (or paper roll versions). Offer stickers, ribbons, and safe glue. Have your child decorate their own pair! This art is the main Navratri highlight of our preschool, and also, kids eagerly wait for this activity.
4. Navratri Finger Painting
Spread a big chart paper and non-toxic finger paints in the nine Navratri colors. Let your child make a stunning, abstract work of art with their fingers. It’s messy, fun, and a good way to experiment with the festival’s color palette. This is always a winner in our list of Navratri activities for preschoolers.
5. Storytime with Puppets
Tell the simple tale of Goddess Durga through finger puppets or sock puppets. A lion and a demon puppet can bring the story to life! This makes the story interesting and simple for a preschooler to grasp, making it an important educational aspect of our Navratri activities for preschoolers.
4 Engaging and Fun Navratri Activities for School Kids
With older children, we can have activities that are more detailed and creative.
6. “9 Days of Navratri” Mini-Book
Encourage your child to make a small, foldable book. In each page, he can note the name of the Devi for the day (e.g., Day 1: Goddess Shailputri) and sketch a simple symbol belonging to her, such as a trident or a lotus. This is one of the best activities of Navratri for school children to learn the 9 days of Navratri Devi names.
7. DIY Kolu / Golu Doll Making
In most parts of India, families set dolls on steps during Navratri. School children can create their own basic dolls using clothespins, clay, or even try to decorate small wooden figures. They can use their own imagination with proper guidance from parents and teachers.
8. Garba Dance-Step Challenge
School children enjoy a challenge! Show them a basic, easy Garba step (such as the 3-clap step). You can even hold a fun group dance competition. It’s an excellent way to get moving and enjoy the Navratri festival spirit.
9. Navratri Themed Collage
Offer the child old magazines, colored paper, and pieces of fabric. Ask them to make a collage on a topic such as “Good vs. Evil” or “The Nine Colors of Navratri.” This stimulates creativity and critical thought regarding the importance of the Navratri festival.
How to Celebrate the Navratri Festival with Your Kids at Home?
Celebrating as a family creates the warmest memories. Here’s how you can do it:
- Create a Small Pooja Corner: Let your child place a clean cloth and arrange the things for the prayer. They can light a diya (with your help, of course!).
- Involve Them in Cooking: Make a simple, festive treat like sundal (a spiced chickpea snack) together.
- Dress Up Together: Wear traditional clothes in the colour of the day. It makes the celebration feel extra special!
- Keep it Positive: Focus on the fun, the stories, and the togetherness. The goal is to build a happy association with the festival.
Let’s Celebrate Together!
The Navratri festival is a beautiful opportunity to fill your child’s world with colour, rhythm, and positive values. By engaging in these Navratri activities for kids, you’re not just keeping them busy; you’re helping them build a lifelong connection with their heritage.
At Makoons Preschool, we incorporate these cultural festivals into our curriculum because we believe the best learning happens when it’s fun and joyful. We hope you and your family have a very happy, colourful, and fun Navratri!
How do you like to celebrate Navratri with your children? Tell us your ideas!
Read Also : What Cultural Values Children Learn Through Each Indian Festival?
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