Why a Slough Mother Created Punjabi Learning Toys

A Slough mother has launched a range of educational Punjabi toys to help British-born children learn and retain their mother tongue.

Harsimrat Kaur is the founder of Nirmolak Heera, a growing language-learning brand created to address the lack of accessible Punjabi resources for young families in the UK.

She said that while parents are spoiled for choice when it comes to English Montessori-style toys, similar products in Punjabi were unheard of.

Harsimrat said: “Language is more than words – it’s connection, identity and belonging.

“I wanted Punjabi resources that were good quality, modern and safe for busy families.

“These toys are about making Punjabi part of everyday play, not something children feel pressured to ‘learn’ later.”

The toys are designed to weave Punjabi language learning into routine family life, encouraging children to absorb vocabulary through play rather than structured lessons.

The collection includes a 3D puzzle board with movable pieces, a two-part jigsaw, and a writing movable truck chalk book that allows children to practise Punjabi writing skills.

They are particularly targeted at second and third-generation Punjabi families who want to pass on their language but lack practical tools at home.

The launch includes five original toys. These are supported by digital downloads, online games, and additional materials available through the Nirmolak Heera shop website.

Harsimrat said the idea was shaped by her own experiences within a multilingual household.

During a visit from her in-laws, she found herself acting as a translator between them and her friends. She said she did not want her children to face the same situation growing up.

Harsimrat believes a child who can speak their mother tongue gains something invaluable, from communicating with grandparents to forming a deeper connection with their culture and history.

Although she holds a master’s degree in mathematics, she said becoming a mother led her to reassess her priorities and pursue Punjabi teaching.

The toys have been released on Amazon and it marks a big step for Nirmolak Heera, which originally started as a free online platform sharing Sikh religious hymns.

It later expanded into a Punjabi tuition service and has since developed into a wider language-learning brand.

Making the toys available on Amazon means families across the UK and abroad can now access them more easily.

Harsimrat has also partnered with other small businesses to broaden the selection of Punjabi-themed educational products.

These partnerships include a Punjabi memory game made by a mum in Germany and Punjabi-written t-shirts.

One collaboration features Parus’ touch-and-feel books, created by a mum and primary school teacher based in Luton.

Beyond children’s products, Ms Kaur continues to support adult learners and families seeking ways to introduce Punjabi into everyday home life.