Taarana’s Chinese New Year Celebration: A Day of Fun and Growth

28/01/2025

Our goal is to celebrate diversity and empower our students.

As has been tradition each year, Taarana School didn’t miss out on hosting our annual Chinese New Year celebration with our neurodiverse children earlier this month.

The school was transformed into a vibrant hub of festivity, and the spirit of togetherness filled the air. This Year of the Snake celebration was packed with fun and meaningful student activities.

The day began with a lively introduction to CNY through a short and interactive presentation. They learned about the snake’s symbolism in Chinese culture—wisdom, adaptability, and transformation. And just like a snake sheds its skin, they, too, could embrace change and grow uniquely.

After a photo session, our students and faculty participated in the beloved Yee Sang toss. Gathered around colourful platters of vegetarian ingredients, they tossed the Yee Sang high to symbolise the wish for abundance and good fortune. Afterwards, everyone enjoyed the Yee Sang alongside a spread of festive snacks.

Next, the children dove into a series of creative and engaging activities inspired by the zodiac sign. The experiences were designed to spark their imagination while celebrating the spirit of the occasion.

A highlight was crafting snakes from colourful beads and bendy straws. The students brought their creations to life, showcasing their creativity and individuality. This activity also helped them develop their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, making it enjoyable and enriching.

Next, the children formed a ‘Snake Walk,’ a lively activity where they lined up and moved like a slithering snake. Holding each other’s shoulders, they wiggled and swayed in unison, creating a winding chain that snaked across the school grounds.

This playful exercise encouraged teamwork, coordination, and plenty of laughter—a delightful reminder of how simple, creative activities can foster connection and joy among the students.

The grand finale was ‘Fun with Fireworks,’ a safe and sensory-friendly celebration of sound and excitement. Using cardboard tubes and balloons, the children launched bursts of confetti into the air, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere that left everyone smiling.

At Taarana, celebrations like these are more than just fun—they are opportunities for growth, connection, and cultural understanding.

“Our goal is to create meaningful experiences that celebrate diversity and empower our students,” said Dr Sunitha Sivakumaran, Taarana’s Principal. “Through activities like the Snake Race and Yee Sang toss, we honour traditions and foster skills like teamwork, communication, and confidence.”

This year’s celebration was another reminder that every child, regardless of their abilities, can shine brightly when given the proper support and opportunities. And as the confetti settled and the laughter echoed, it was clear that this celebration had left a lasting impression on everyone involved.