Summer holidays are meant to be a time of exploration, play, and discovery, yet more often than not, we find children glued to phones or tablets, swiping endlessly to pass the time. While digital entertainment has its place, it rarely offers the tactile joy, focus, or cultural richness that traditional crafts can bring.

This summer, why not swap screen time for story time and introduce your child to the vibrant world of Indian heritage through hands-on creativity? Traditional crafts are fun to learn, and they carry stories, skills, and values passed down over generations.

Here are five lesser-known crafts that parents can explore with their children at home, using simple materials and a little curiosity:

1. Pattachitra – Painting stories on cloth

Why is it important?

Pattachitra is an art form that is a vibrant method of storytelling. Originating in Odisha and Bengal, it was traditionally used to depict scenes from epics like the Ramayana and local folk tales on palm leaves or cloth. By engaging children with this craft, parents introduce them to narrative sequencing, mythology, and fine brushwork.

How can parents teach........

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