A Day of Tradition, Togetherness, and Learning – Pongal Celebration at Pragathi Alt School

At Pragathi Alt School and Learning Center, we believe in creating inclusive and meaningful experiences for our children, focusing on emotional understanding, peer encouragement, and team spirit. On Friday, 10th January 2025, our students joyfully celebrated Pongal, immersing themselves in the vibrant traditions of this harvest festival.

The day began with the children arriving in beautiful traditional attire, their smiles lighting up the school. The pride they took in their outfits and the happiness they radiated set the tone for a festive and enriching day. Before lunch, we organized a variety of traditional games, each carefully designed to foster collaboration, motivation, and interaction.

One highlight of the day was the game of undikol (slingshot). The children showed remarkable interest and enthusiasm, with some taking the initiative to teach their peers who struggled to hold and aim the slingshot. This act of kindness demonstrated their natural helping tendency and emotional maturity. They didn’t focus on winning but on supporting others, showing no ego and gladly accepting younger peers into their circle. Their pride in teaching and uplifting others was truly inspiring.

Another game involved aiming a ball into a mud pot. Here, children motivated their peers, guiding them on where to stand and how to aim. The collaboration among the students was heartwarming, as they encouraged one another to succeed.  Even the teachers participated in the games, sharing laughter and excitement with the children. Teachers were thrilled to witness this environment of mutual support receiving motivation and cheers from the students themselves.

Craft activities also played a significant role in the celebration. All the students created Pongal-themed crafts, showcasing their creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. For children with learning disabilities, such opportunities allow them to shine in unique ways, as their ability to think differently becomes evident through their work.

The day’s activities—games and crafts—helped children develop essential life skills such as communication, interaction, and accepting and offering help. It was a powerful reminder that exposure and opportunity matter more than winning. Providing a platform for children to express themselves, participate, and learn is crucial for building confidence and fostering growth.

At Pragathi Alt School, every celebration is more than just an event; it is a step toward nurturing individuality, building self-esteem, and creating a sense of belonging. The Pongal celebration reinforced our commitment to special education, individualized attention, and creating an environment where every child can thrive.