In Bali, culture is not just something to study — it’s something you live, breathe, and celebrate every day. One of the most exciting traditions for young learners to experience is the Ogoh-Ogoh parade, a vibrant celebration held just before Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence.
At Malajah Playschool, we believe in the power of culture to connect children to the world around them. When little ones explore traditions like Ogoh-Ogoh, they’re not just having fun — they’re building a deeper understanding of community, values, and belonging.
What Is Ogoh-Ogoh?
Ogoh-Ogoh are large, colorful statues made from bamboo, paper, and paint. They often look like mythical creatures or scary monsters, but their purpose is deeply symbolic. These figures represent negative forces or bad energy in the world. By building and parading them, the Balinese community expresses a desire to let go of negativity and begin the new year with peace and clarity.
The statues are paraded around the village with traditional music, dancing, and joyful noise — a celebration that’s both exciting and meaningful. After the parade, the Ogoh-Ogoh is often burned in a symbolic act of purification.
Why Cultural Experiences Matter for Young Children
For toddlers and young learners, culture is best understood through experience. Seeing, hearing, and participating help children connect the dots in a natural and memorable way.
Here’s what children gain from participating in cultural activities like Ogoh-Ogoh:
- A sense of identity: They begin to understand the culture they live in and feel part of something bigger.
- Respect for others: They learn that people celebrate and believe in different things — and that’s a beautiful part of life.
- Creative expression: From building the statues to joining the parade, it’s a chance for kids to use their imagination and creativity.
Supporting Culture in Play-Based Learning
At Malajah Playschool, we include cultural traditions in our play-based learning because we know they help shape well-rounded, curious, and kind children. Whether they’re helping to create a mini Ogoh-Ogoh, listening to a Balinese story, or joining in a traditional dance, these activities support:
- Social-emotional learning
- Language development
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Imaginative thinking
And most importantly — they help children feel connected to the world around them.
Learning Together as a Community
Introducing culture in early education is not just about teaching facts — it’s about building a strong foundation for empathy, connection, and lifelong learning. With each celebration, our little learners grow more confident, more curious, and more proud of their roots.
Let’s continue to celebrate together — one tradition, one story, and one shared moment at a time.