Janmashtami commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna and is celebrated with a lot of fervour. The festival is a great reminder of the teachings of Lord Krishna and of the victory of righteousness or dharma. In a world where we tend to take things for granted, Janamashtami is also a reminder of the miraculous birth story of Lord Krishna, including his escape from Kansa, who had left no stone unturned to kill him. 

 At Footprints Playschool, we believe in exposing young children to our rich heritage such that they grow up believing in following the path of righteousness. Here are some Krishna Janmashtami activities that children enjoy, which also gives them the opportunity to internalize a number of values.

Activity On Janmashtami

1. Dress up as Krishna and Radha

It will be lovely to have children dress up as Lord Krishna or Radha. The traditional attire, jewellery, and peacock feathers will ensure children exude a divine hue. A mini parade around the school adds to the fervour of the festival and takes the celebration up several notches.

Additionally, it will be great to have children enact small snippets from the life of Lord Krishna.

2. Storytelling

Interactive storytelling sessions will go a long way in endearing Krishna to the children. Among other things, children will love to hear of his love for butter. The lifting of Govardhan Hill is yet another story that tends to fascinate children. The use of props can go a long way in making the storytelling engaging and fun. 

3. Janmashtami Crafts

Children will enjoy a variety of art and crafts, including decorating the flute or earthen pots or matkis. 

4. Rangoli

It is also a great idea to create decorative Rangolis with the participation of children. Rangoli designs can include a lot of symbols from Krishna’s life, including his favourite flute or peacock feathers.

5. Bhajans

Encouraging children to sing Bhajans in the praise of Lord Krishna will set the day apart. Little children singing “ Maiyya mori main nahi makhan khayo” will simply transform the vibe.

6. Swing Decoration

Children will particularly enjoy setting up a small swing replete with the idol of baby Krishna.  This will be a great time to share with them the story of his birth. They will be fascinated to learn of divine intervention and of the triumph of good over evil, where Kansa wasn’t successful in his ill intentions.

7. Treasure Hunt

Young children love activities. It will be a fun idea to organise a treasure hunt where children discover aspects related to Lord Krishna’s life. At each discovery, you can stop to tell them interesting snippets about their life.

8. Song and dance

What better way than organising a dance party where you play traditional music and let the children sway. The activity will encourage physical movement while also introducing children to cultural music. 

9. Fruit Offerings

It will be a good idea to involve the children in preparing fruit offerings for Lord Krishna. It will teach them about the symbolism of making offerings to God. Post which children can enjoy healthy fruits themselves.

10. Dahi Handi

Janmashtami celebrations aren’t complete without Dahi Handi celebrations. Children can be involved in creating colourful decorations for Dahi Handi celebrations as well as in creating a Dahi Handi display. All the while, children can be explained the significance of this tradition.

These activities can go a long way in helping children develop cultural awareness. In addition, they will participate in a lot of team activities that will help promote teamwork and cooperation. With Janamashtami activities involving creative expression, it will also boost their confidence. Importantly, the activities will also teach them important values of the victory of good over evil. Celebrations such as these offer a number of coachable moments where children can be taught the importance of love, compassion, and righteousness. Early exposure, in turn, helps children internalise these values. 

At Footprints Preschool, we are committed to the holistic development of children. Whether it is fostering intellectual curiosity, internalising values and more, children are offered a conducive environment in which they can develop to their fullest potential. Little surprise then that parents across the country consider Footprints to be their preferred parenting partner.

———————————————————————————————–FAQs:

1. Why is Janmashtami celebrated?
   Janmashtami marks the birth of Lord Krishna and symbolizes the victory of righteousness over evil. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm through prayers, festivities, and cultural activities. 
2. What are some engaging storytelling themes for Janmashtami?
   Stories like Krishna’s love for butter, the lifting of Govardhan Hill, and his childhood mischief captivate young minds and help instil values of courage, kindness, and wisdom.
3. How do art and crafts help children understand Janmashtami?
   Activities like decorating flutes, matkis, and making Rangoli introduce children to Krishna’s symbols and encourage creative expression.
4. What is the significance of swing decoration in Janmashtami?
   Decorating a swing with baby Krishna’s idol reminds children of the divine birth and brings festive joy.
5. What lessons do children learn from Dahi Handi celebrations?
   Dahi Handi promotes teamwork, courage, and an understanding of Krishna’s playful spirit.
6. Why is fruit offering a part of Janmashtami traditions?
   Offering fruits teaches children about gratitude, devotion, and the joy of sharing.
7. How do these activities contribute to a child’s development?
   Janmashtami activities help children build cultural awareness, teamwork, creativity, and moral values like love, compassion, and righteousness.