Plan with families
Ask families who celebrate Diwali which stories and foods they would like to share. Traditions, food preferences and religious practices differ. Agree on ingredients and preparation with the centre before arranging a cooking visit.
A menu idea for review
Morning tea: soft fruit colour bowls. Lunch: a mild, centre-approved lentil and vegetable dish with rice. Afternoon tea: the centre’s approved bread or snack with a reviewed spread. Use familiar accepted recipes, then seek family input on respectful naming and variations.
Colour without pressure
Try Soft fruit colour bowls: each child chooses from prepared soft fruit using their own bowl and utensils. Notice colours, smells and shapes. A child can participate without tasting. Keep decorative art materials on a different table from food.
What to check
Ghee and yoghurt contain milk; spice blends, breads and purchased sweets may introduce other allergens. Check the full recipe and supplier labels. Keep choking hazards, open flames, powders and non-food decorations away from the food activity.