With the holiday travel season here, a few small, well-chosen books can keep kids happily busy long after the second snack. From wipe and clean books and touch and feel books to bag-shaped picture books and sticker books, here’s what to pack for screen-free fun on any journey. 

If you've been wondering whether it's time to move on from picture books, you're not alone. The good news is that there's no exam, no fixed age, and no rush. A child is ready to move on to early reading or chapter books when they show a longer attention span, can retell a story in their own words, and can picture events in their head without needing an illustration on every page. Here's what that looks like in everyday life. 

Every year, there's one evening when the whole neighbourhood looks up at the same tall, ten-headed figure, waiting. Most of us remember being a child in that crowd, a little scared, mostly excited, holding someone's hand a little tighter when the first arrow flew. Whether your child gets to see a Ramlila or not, you can bring the day home with a few simple crafts and one very good story.

Navratri begins on October 11, and for kids it can be so much more than colourful clothes and music. Here's the story behind the nine days, what each form of Durga stands for, how different states celebrate, and easy dress-up and craft ideas to try at home.