It's India's 68th independence day this Saturday, and we're entering the grand seventies! When we were kids, many freedom fighters were still alive, and we got to see and hear about them through the news. However, as that generation fades away, India's fight for independence is fast becoming something relegated solely to history books, with the younger generation taking this freedom for granted. It's up to us as parents to carry on the legacy of our freedom fighters and educate our kids about the great struggle that took place, the fruits of which we are enjoying today. And as with most things, the best way to include young children is through activities!
If you're wondering if all this will make any sense to your toddler, just know that it's never too early to start! Here we have some very easy activities that even a toddler can do!! These independence day activities can be done by toddlers with some assistance from Mom, Dad or an older sibling, so that even a young child can get into the spirit of Independence Day!
These bookmarks are really easy to make - all you need is cardstock, paint in two colors and your toddlers thumbprints!!! These also make a great gift for his friends at preschool or for grandparents.
Let your little one become a festival elephant for the day, with this Indian elephant mask! He can also use blingy elements to decorate it any way he likes!
Handprint crafts are among the easiest for toddlers, because they involve very little effort for an impressive outcome. Let your child's handprint turn into India's national animal, and a cute one at that!
When you are crafting with India's national animal, the bird can't be far behind! Make this simple, yet lovely peacock craft with nothing more than a paper plate and basic craft supplies.
These lotuses are so pretty, you'll be tempted to make them in several colors! This requires a little more effort than the rest, so a little prep might be necessary.
After handprints, collages are another popular craft option with toddlers, since all it involves is tearing and sticking! Let your toddler tear up pieces of colored paper and guide him about where to stick which color.
How can we leave behind India's king of fruits - the mango? This coloring page has big simple pictures without too much detail, which will be easy enough for your toddler to color in.
If you have a little fashionista who tries to dress up in a sari like her Mommy, she'll love this story. This is a lovely little book that echoes India's scent in every page.
When you think of India, you can't help but think of busy roads with autos snaking their way through the narrowest passages!! This book truly reflects the flavour of India with an adorable little Auto called Toto.
Toddlers aren't probably much help in the kitchen, but even your little one can play Junior Masterchef with this salad!! Just get the ingredients ready and help him arrange them on a plate sorted by color.
When kids do an activity or a craft, they are more likely to remember it and it creates memories of Independence day being more than just a day off from school. It's also a good way for them to learn basic facts about this great country. So choose a few activities among these, and you and your toddler are all set for a week full of fun!! Jai Hind!
Lots of Love,
