Children learn best when they can see, touch, and interact with what they are studying. While textbooks provide knowledge, hands-on activities create lasting impressions. To make learning more engaging, the Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development has introduced ‘Colour Your Heritage’, a colouring book that showcases the country’s rich architectural heritage.
Instead of screens or lectures, the book brings heritage to life through something as simple as colouring. It was officially launched yesterday, coinciding with the 9th birthday of His Royal Highness Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel. To mark the occasion, about 30 copies were distributed to students for free. It is designed for students below class 8.
The book features illustrations of the country’s unique architectural designs, such as majestic stupas, temples and traditional Bhutanese homes, allowing children to engage with their heritage through colour and imagination.
As children fill in the drawings with colour, they are encouraged to learn about the symbols, designs, and stories embedded within the architecture.
“Personally, for me, I like colouring because it is therapeutic, and we can also learn about Bhutanese architecture through this book. It also gives us a brief description about the various architectures, and I also learned about how it is made,” said Tenzin Nima Wangmo, a student.
Officials said the book launch is aligned with the 13th Five Year Plan objective to make Bhutan’s younger generation the custodians of the country’s culture and heritage.
“It is a small initiative that we have undertaken for the engagement of youth in traditional architecture and heritage sites. It provides a platform for children to learn about traditional architecture, designs, and elements and also give their input by engaging through colouring,” said Yeshi Samdrup, Chief Architect, Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development.
He added that, unlike conventional textbooks, the colouring book encourages children to learn about the country’s heritage visually.
Meanwhile, parents say the book is a refreshing alternative to digital entertainment and a more enjoyable way of teaching children about the country’s architectural heritage.
“I see a lot of benefits for the children because when you ask the children to colour, they need to know the different parts of each architectural design. Without knowing the name of each design and element, it will be difficult for them to colour properly. So, when they finish colouring, they would know the names of each architectural design and parts,” said Chimi Dorji, a parent.
The book is available for sale at the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck Public Library in Thimphu.
By blending creativity with education, the book is expected to help Bhutanese children build a lasting connection with their cultural heritage, one colour at a time.
Kinley Bidha
Edited by Sonam Pem
