Diwali in My New Home
What’s inside...
Priya loves being with family and friends to watch fireworks and celebrate Diwali. But this year Priya and her parents are living in the United States, and no one seems to know about the holiday. Priya misses the traditions in India. But as she strings lights outside and creates rangoli art, Priya introduces the festival of lights to her neighbors. And even though the celebration is different this year, it's still Diwali. A heartwarming story of celebrating in a new place and sharing the Hindu festival of lights with those unfamiliar with the holiday.
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt about celebrating Diwali in their new home?
What are some ways the character's family kept their traditions alive in a new place?
Can you think of a time when you tried something new during a festival? How did it make you feel?
Why is it important to respect and learn about different cultures and their celebrations?
What is one new thing you learned about Diwali from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences with festivals or special occasions to those of the character.
Discuss the importance of cultural traditions and how they help shape our identities. Use examples from the book and relate them to your family's traditions.
Ask your child to imagine and describe how they would feel moving to a new place and celebrating a familiar holiday. Relate those feelings back to the story to deepen their empathy.
Highlight the positive aspects of learning about new cultures through the characters' experiences in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Cultural Diversity
Explanation: The story highlights a child experiencing Diwali in a new environment, showcasing different cultural traditions.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of respecting and celebrating diverse cultures, which fosters empathy and social inclusiveness in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Adjusting to Change
Explanation: The protagonist navigates the challenges of moving to a new place and celebrating a familiar festival in unfamiliar ways.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that change is a part of life and adapting positively can lead to new and exciting experiences.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Traditions
Explanation: Throughout the book, family traditions play a central role in keeping the cultural heritage alive, even in new settings.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of maintaining and cherishing their family traditions, which strengthens family bonds and provides a sense of identity.
Example Lesson: Sharing Joy with Others
Explanation: The child in the story shares the Diwali celebration with new friends, spreading joy and happiness.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of sharing their own cultural practices and festivities, thus promoting communal harmony and friendship.
Example Lesson: Building Resilience
Explanation: The protagonist overcomes initial discomfort and finds joy in the new environment by engaging in a familiar celebration.
Real-World Application: This lesson instills resilience in children, showing them that they can find happiness and stability even when facing new challenges.