By- Kelli Drummer-Avendano
Some of our best school memories come from celebrating the holidays with our classmates. It’s an exciting time with many educational opportunities disguised as pure fun! As always, cultural inclusion is key to make sure all students feel represented and that they have the chance to share their holiday traditions with others.
1. Create a class cookbook.
A cookbook is a collaborative way to celebrate the holidays with your students. It also allows your class to share cultural traditions and customs that may not typically be represented. Binding all the collected recipes together with metal binder rings is an easy way for students to create a lovely gift for their families.
2. Exchange secret snowflake cards.
To get in the spirit of the season, have your students design and deliver handmade cards. This is a wonderful way to upcycle old holiday cards you and your students might have at home. Simply cut out images and decorations from the old cards and glue them on construction paper to create new ones. The cards should be nondenominational in nature, but can convey general good wishes for the winter break or New Year. Additionally, you could provide your students with a specific prompt for a fun writing practice.
3. Set up a selfie station.
A picture is worth a thousand words! A selfie station is a great way to relieve stress, add winter decor to the classroom, and bring students together for an entertaining activity. Students can also use their art skills to make signs and props to liven up the display. If you have a Polaroid camera or if there’s an easy way to print the photos, designate a wall to show off the selfies.
4. Movie time is a must.
There are plenty of winter movies that are entertaining and nondenominational—or why not show clips from several movies that talk about different holidays? Ask your librarian at school or search your local library for documentaries about celebrations from around the world. You can dedicate one day for a “movie party,” or you can set aside time each week leading up to the winter break to enjoy the movies.
5. Throw a “New Year’s Eve” party.
On the last day before break, have a class party with a New Year’s theme. Countries from all over the world have their unique cultural traditions to ring in the New Year. Have your class research and choose some of their favorite ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve and then recreate these festivities in your classroom!
Some of our best school memories come from celebrating the holidays with our classmates. It’s an exciting time with many educational opportunities disguised as pure fun! As always, cultural inclusion is key to make sure all students feel represented and that they have the chance to share their holiday traditions with others.
