At Creating Together, our crafts and creative projects focus on celebrations and the many diverse cultures of our families – and Diwali is no exception. Come by on November 7th to celebrate and learn more about this festival, so loved by millions around the world!

What is Diwali?

Diwali, Deepavali or Dipavali is the five-day festival of lights, which is celebrated every autumn in the northern hemisphere. Millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world celebrate the festival, which coincides with the Hindu New Year. It is a very exciting and colourful holiday. Homes are cleaned to welcome the New Year and windows are opened so that the Hindu goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, can enter. It is believed that she cannot enter a house which is not lit up, so every household burns special Diwali clay lamps (diyas) to light the way for the goddess, which is why the holiday is also known as the Festival of Lights.

 

 

Why is it Important to Teach Diversity and Celebrate Different Cultures?

Teaching children about the importance of celebrating different cultures and diversity will help your children tremendously. Did you know that being culturally aware can have a significant affect on your child’s success, promoting creativity, high-level thinking, and collaboration.

Our Parkdale community represents so many different backgrounds, cultures, ethnicity, language, religion, and physical ability. Being diverse is defined as all the ways we are alike and different. What are some advantages to teaching about and helping your child be more culturally aware?

1. Promote inclusion: Learning about cultures, languages, religions and holidays other than their own helps kids learn that others may be very different from them, and promotes inclusion.
2. Appreciating difference: By learning some of the incredible things that come from other cultures and ways of living, we teach children to appreciate differences rather than fear them.
3. Overcoming stereotypes: Children need to know that it’s ok to be different, and to learn and grow together. This encourages the creative thinking, understanding, and compassion needed to overcome stereotypes.

So, we invite you to join us on November 7th for this year’s Diwali Celebration, with crafts, treats, and amazing company. If you’re curious about Diwali, there will be a display board up with information about this time of year, and some interesting facts!

Hope to see you there!