Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most widely celebrated holidays across South Asia and the global Indian diaspora. Marked by colorful lights, vibrant decorations, sweet treats and meaningful traditions, Diwali is the perfect opportunity to teach children about culture, values and heritage.
For many families, it's a moment to connect with identity, celebrate togetherness and pass on timeless stories like The Ramayana. But how can we make these teachings fun, simple and age-appropriate?
Whether you're a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this guide will walk you through the best ways to teach kids about Diwali using books, crafts and fun learning activities.
📚 Best Diwali Books for Kids
Books are one of the most effective ways to introduce children to the significance of Diwali. Through storytelling, they can understand its history, traditions and messages of kindness, courage and light.
My First Diwali & My Diwali Dream by Little Owl Stories (Personalized)
We may be a little biased—but we truly believe our personalized Diwali books offer a magical and impactful way for children to connect with the festival.
My First Diwali (ages 0–4): Introduces toddlers to the colors, sounds, and joy of Diwali through simple words and bright illustrations.
My Diwali Dream (ages 4+): A more immersive story where your child becomes the hero, meeting characters like Lord Rama, Krishna, and Goddess Lakshmi and learning values like bravery, generosity, and selflessness.
✅ Why it works: Children engage deeply when they see themselves reflected in the stories they read.
Binny's Diwali by Thrity Umrigar
This charming story follows Binny as she shares her Diwali traditions with her classmates. It’s a gentle and heartwarming introduction to Diwali through the lens of a young child navigating both her cultural identity and classroom community.
Amma, Tell Me About Diwali! by Bhakti Mathur
A rhythmic and engaging picture book that introduces children to the mythology behind Diwali. Through lyrical storytelling, it explains the story of Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya and the symbolic meaning of lighting diyas.
Let’s Celebrate Diwali by Anjali Joshi
This informative book takes a multicultural approach by exploring how Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists around the world. It's a fantastic resource for promoting inclusivity and understanding within diverse settings.
✂️ Easy Diwali Crafts for Children
Crafting is a fantastic way to help children connect with Diwali traditions through play and creativity. These easy Diwali craft ideas for kids are not only fun, but they also support fine motor skills, sensory play, and cultural learning.
DIY Paper Diyas
Materials: Colored paper, scissors, glue, glitter
Activity: Cut out diya shapes and decorate.
Teaches: Symbolism of light defeating darkness and welcoming positivity.
Rangoli Art with Colored Rice or Sand
Materials: Colored rice/sand, glue, cardboard base
Activity: Create geometric or floral rangoli designs.
Teaches: Traditional Indian art and the value of hospitality.
Diwali Lanterns
Materials: Jars, toilet rolls, tissue paper, LED tea lights
Activity: Decorate and light up your lanterns.
Teaches: Eco-conscious creativity and celebration.
Want printable templates or eco-friendly Diwali craft instructions? Let us know!
🎭 Other Fun Diwali Activities for Kids
There a number of other interactive and engaging ways to approach educating your little one about Diwali. Whether it be through puppet shows, games or even cooking family recipes, they are sure to bring fun. laughter and light.
Diwali puppet show
Retell the story of The Ramayana using homemade stick puppets or paper characters. Children can create puppets representing Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman and Ravana using paper, crayons and popsicle sticks. Then act out key scenes as you narrate the tale of good triumphing over evil.
Tip: After the show is complete, ask your child to retell the story in their own words. This reinforces what they have learnt, helping to build greater knowledge and understanding.
Cooking Diwali treats
The list of Diwali treats you could make are endless. Whether it be sweets, savoury snacks or delicious drinks. Choosing simple recipes that your child can easily partake in is key. The team at Bright Horizons have put together a fantastic list of easy to make treats that are sure to be a hit this festive season. They include rice crispy ladoos, chocolate burfi, mini samosas and kheer!
Diwali bingo or memory match game
A memory match game is not only a great way to build your child's cognitive abilities, but it is also a fun and engaging way to introduce the important elements of Diwali. You can either create yourself, or print out, symbols such as diyas, rangoli, sweets, Gods etc. Reach out to us to get a free downloadable version of Diwali matching cards that you can use!
Regardless of which method you choose, make sure that the activity is fun, engaging and educational. The joy of Diwali is one that should be shared and cherished by all!
🏡 Make Diwali a Learning Celebration
By combining books, crafts, games, storytelling, and food, you can turn Diwali into a joyful, educational experience that children will remember for years to come. Whether you’re at home or in the classroom, these ideas make it easy to blend fun with meaning.
🌟 Key takeaway: The best way to teach kids about Diwali is to let them see, feel, and be part of it.
📥 Free Diwali Printables & Storybooks
Want printable games, craft templates, or interested in purchasing a personalized Diwali book?
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