Hearts Don’t Need Reasons
(For ages 3-6, Theme: Adoption, Family Love, and Inclusivity)
The morning sun peeked through the windows of the Sharma house in Pune as little Dia helped her Amma arrange flowers in a vase. Today was special – it was her “Heart Day,” the day she became part of the Sharma family.
“Amma,” Dia asked, carefully placing a yellow marigold, “can you tell me again how you found me?”
Amma sat down, pulling Dia onto her lap. “Your heart knew we were your family even before we met you,” she smiled. “Just like these flowers know exactly which colours to become, hearts know where they belong.”
At school that day, during “Family Tree” project time, Dia’s friend Aryan was confused. “But how can the Sharmas be your real family if you don’t look like them?”
Their teacher, Ms. Lata, who had been listening, brought out a beautiful patchwork quilt. “Look at this quilt, children. Each piece is different – some are silk from Varanasi, some cotton from Gujarat, some wool from Kashmir. But together, they make something warm and wonderful.”
“Different pieces can stitch together to make a family?” asked a surprised and genuinely curious Aryan.
“Families are made from love and bonding, not looks,” Dia explained, remembering Amma’s words. “Like how your baby sister came from the hospital, and I came from the children’s home, but we both came home to spread and share love…”
That afternoon, during art time, Dia created a special painting. Instead of a regular family tree, she made a “Family Garden.” She painted different flowers growing together – tall sunflowers like Papa, bright roses like Amma, and a small, cheerful daisy for herself.
“Families can grow in many ways,” she told her classmates. “Some through seeds like flowers, some through hearts like mine.”
When Papa picked her up, he saw her painting and got tears in his eyes. “This is beautiful, beta. You know what makes it even more special? In nature, flowers don’t care which garden they bloom in – they just spread their joy everywhere.”
That evening, during their special Heart Day celebration, Dia helped Amma make her favorite Gajar ka Halwa. As they cooked, Nani joined on video call and shared stories of how she too was adopted, many years ago.
“Love has its own family tree,” Nani said, “and it grows in all directions.”
Before bed, Dia hugged her parents extra tight. “Amma, Papa,” she whispered, “thank you for helping my heart find its home.”
Word Guide:
– Adoption: When a child becomes part of a family they weren’t born into
– Marigold: A bright orange or yellow flower common in India
– Patchwork: Different pieces of fabric sewn together
– Heritage: Cultural and family background
Discussion Points for Parents:
1. Different ways families are formed
2. Family and Social Fabric
3. Understanding adoption
4. Cultural identity
5. Love beyond biological connections
