Harvest Harmony: Celebrating Pongal, the Montessori Way at Dheeksha Montessori!
Festivals are the perfect time to bring communities together, and at Dheeksha Montessori, we believe in celebrating them with authenticity, joy, and a focus on learning. This year, our Pongal celebrations, aptly named Harvest Harmony 2025, promise to be an unforgettable experience for children aged 1.5 to 6 years.
The festival of Pongal is not just a harvest festival but also a celebration of gratitude to nature, animals, and the abundance of life. At Dheeksha Montessori, we have beautifully woven these traditions into activities that align with the Montessori philosophy of experiential learning and community bonding.
A Sneak Peek Into Harvest Harmony 2025
Here’s how we’re bringing Pongal alive in our Montessori environment:
1. Manpanai Pongal Cooking
Children get hands-on experience preparing Pongal in traditional clay pots, learning about the importance of this ritual while engaging their senses.
2. Uriyadi
A classic Pongal game, Uriyadi encourages children to test their coordination and have fun in a safe and supportive environment.
3. Bullock Cart Ride
A delightful ride on a traditional bullock cart gives children a glimpse into rural life, fostering respect and curiosity about our agricultural heritage.
4. Kolam Creations
Children learn to create beautiful kolams (traditional rangoli designs) with natural powders, enhancing their fine motor skills and understanding of symmetry.
5. Gomatha Pooja
Through a reverent Gomatha Pooja (cow worship), children learn about the role of animals in farming and the interconnectedness of life.
6. Parai Performance
A lively Parai drumming performance introduces children to Tamil Nadu’s vibrant folk art, instilling cultural pride and rhythm awareness.
7. Gummi and Kolattam
Kids participate in Gummi (folk dance) and Kolattam (stick dance), immersing themselves in the joy of traditional Tamil music and movement.
8. Village Bazaar
We recreate the charm of a rural market, giving children the opportunity to explore, interact, and understand the dynamics of community living.Â
9. Traditional Games and Crafts
Children will immerse themselves in the joy of traditional games such as spinning tops, archery, Paramapadham (snake and ladder), sack races, ring toss, and spin the wheel. They will also explore creative activities like crafting toys, designing Mayilai Thoranam (mango leaf garlands), and painting clay pots. These timeless games and crafts not only provide entertainment but also enhance their creativity, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving skills.
10. Festive Snacks
No celebration is complete without food! Children and parents will savor authentic Pongal and snacks, adding a delicious touch to the festivities.
Why Celebrate Festivals in a Montessori Setting?
At Dheeksha Montessori, we believe that festivals are more than just celebrations—they are opportunities for children to connect with their roots, develop a sense of gratitude, and learn in a joyful and meaningful way. By involving children in traditional activities like Pongal cooking, kolam creation, and Gomatha Pooja, we provide them with hands-on experiences that foster independence, creativity, and a deep respect for our culture.
Join the Celebration
We’re thrilled to invite parents and children to join us for Harvest Harmony 2025 on 11th January, 2025. Together, let’s celebrate the spirit of Pongal with activities that bring alive the essence of Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage.
Location: Dheeksha Montessori, 26, West Kamaraj Nagar, Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai - 600041
Time: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Registration Deadline: 7 PM, 10th January 2025
For Registration Contact +91-82828 20783
At Dheeksha Montessori, we’re not just celebrating Pongal—we’re nurturing a love for culture, learning, and community. Let’s make this festival a memorable one for your little ones!
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