More about the book here

Holi is one of the most visually joyful celebrations in the world, and this book captures that explosion of color and community beautifully. For children who celebrate Holi it's a wonderful affirmation; for those who don't, it's a window into a tradition that is genuinely wonderful to learn about. It's also a perfect springboard for color mixing, art, and talking about how different cultures celebrate the arrival of spring.

Discussion Questions

• What is Holi, and when do people celebrate it?
• What colors were in the story? Which was your favorite?
• Why do you think people celebrate by throwing and spreading colors?
• What is a celebration or holiday that is special to YOUR family?

Chalk Dust Color SwirlUsing colored chalk on dark paper, your learner will create swirling bursts of color inspired by the Holi celebrations in the book. Blending with fingers makes this a wonderfully tactile experience.

Supplies

• Black or dark blue construction paper
• Colorful chalk (the chunkier the better for little hands)
• Tissue or fingertips for blending
• Optional: a light spritz of hairspray to seal (adult only!)

Steps

1. Look at the most colorful pages in the book together and talk about all the colors you see.
2. Choose two or three colors of chalk. Draw swirling, circular motions on the dark paper, like colors being thrown into the air.
3. Use a fingertip or tissue to blend where the colors meet. Watch what new color appears!
4. Add more colors and blend more swirls until the whole paper feels alive with color.
   
   

Tips for Parents

• This is a good outside or kitchen table activity. Chalk dust goes everywhere and that's part of the fun.
• Ask "What color do you get when you mix these two?" as you blend. This is real color science!
  
  

Extensions

• Color mixing experiment: mix actual paint colors together to match the combinations you made in chalk. Does red + blue always make the same purple? Try with different shades!
• If possible, watch a short, age-appropriate video of Holi celebrations — the real thing is even more magical.
• Make a comparison chart: How is Holi similar to other spring celebrations your family knows? How is it different?