For families and young visitors, the Children’s Wonderland offers engaging puppet shows, face paintings, mindful and meditative arts & crafts, and creative storytelling introducing the life of the Buddha in fun and accessible ways.
Objectives: Mindfulness and Reflection as Foundation
1. Art as a Path to Mindfulness and Dharma Expression a. Sand Calligraphy & Paper Calligraphy (VMHY One Stroke Words): Calligraphy in Buddhism represents the practice of focused concentration (定) and wisdom (慧). Each stroke embodies impermanence (無常) as the sand disperses or ink dries. It is a reminder that beauty exists in the present moment.
b. Fingerprint Mandala Fan & Mandala Spin: Mandalas symbolize the interconnected nature of all things. Using one’s fingerprint personalizes the mandala, reinforcing the Buddhist idea that every being contributes to harmony.
c. Mandala Necklace & Fluid Bear: These are expressions of creativity that align with the Buddhist teaching that wisdom and compassion can be expressed through any medium. Creating these items with mindfulness is a form of meditation in action.
2. Crafting to Inspire Virtue & Wisdom a. Ice Cream Sticks – Inspiring Words: Words carry power in Buddhism. Writing inspiring words on sticks serves as a reminder of Right Speech (正語) and the importance of encouragement.
b. Tote Bag: These items can be used as everyday reminders of Buddhist virtues, reinforcing the practice of carrying wisdom and compassion into daily life.
Living the Buddha’s Teachings
Station 4; Puppet Show: Wisdom Through Stories from Bodhi Light Tale Podcast – Watch a Buddhist tale come to life, illustrating the values of kindness, wisdom, and compassion in action.
🔸 3G: The Buddha’s Way of Life
● Introduction to the Three Acts of Goodness – Learn how to Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, Think Good Thoughts in daily life.
● Dharma Wheel (Action Task) – Just like the Buddha turned the Dharma Wheel to spread wisdom, participants will take action by performing small acts of kindness.
● 三好風車 (3G Pinwheel) – Create a pinwheel as a reminder that even a small action can spread positivity, just as a single gust of wind sets the wheel in motion.
Creating with a Compassionate Heart
a. Mandala Spin & Mandala Necklace – Engage in mindful artistry, crafting personal mandalas that symbolize harmony and enlightenment.
b. Fluid Bear – Just as a Buddha embodies different qualities, personalize your bear as a symbol of your spiritual journey.
c. Tote Bag Painting – Carrying Wisdom Everywhere – Decorate a tote bag with Buddhist motifs or messages, turning an everyday item into a reminder of wisdom and kindness. Decorate a tote bag with Buddhist virtues or messages, turning a simple bag into a reminder to carry wisdom and kindness everywhere.