India is a vast and diverse country with many regions and religions that hold traditions and celebrations for the New Year in different ways. The first month in the Hindu calendar is called Chaitra. Today marks Gudi Padwa, a springtime festivity, that celebrates the New Year in Maharashtra, Goa and the Konkan regions. The day begins with a ritualistic bath, wearing a new outfit and followed by prayers. The entrance of the home is decorated with rangoli and torans of flowers and mango leaves. Gudi flags are hoisted outside the home and is made using a colourful silk scarf tied to a bamboo stick decorated with flowers, leaves and sugar candy garland. Watch more about Gudi Padwa Celebrations with your kids here. 

Rainbow Pinecone Flowers 

Today is the Hindu new year and we are going to celebrate this day by making a colourful craft made from pinecones. Let’s start by taking advantage of the beautiful outdoors and going on a nature walk to collect pinecones and sticks to make our framed flower decor. 

What You will Need 

Process  

Engaging with Your Child 

Invite your child by saying “I would love to create a new piece of art to celebrate Gudi Padwa. Would you like to come on an adventure with me to collect pinecones and sticks?”. Intentionally acknowledging and celebrating other cultural events increases children’s awareness, appreciation and inclusion of diverse beliefs and cultures. After you have collected enough pinecones and sticks, go home and set up your art space together. Allow your child to lead with their heart and decorate the pinecones and sticks however they please. Encourage your child to dip, scoop, blot, roll and splatter the paint using their paint brushes. Create your own piece alongside them – your involvement has many benefits in your child’s play time. Ask them questions about their work, encourage their efforts and have plenty fun!