Christmas Around the World

This week the first graders began an adventure around the world. We have visited China, Italy, England, Brazil, and many places in between. The Christmas Around the World presentations are one of my favorite activities in first grade. The class and I learn new things about different cultures every year. It is such a great experience for the students to see how cultures around the world observe a beloved Christian holiday. They get to work with their parents and research their country and bring a treat, craft, or game to show the class. Not only is this an educational activity, it gives the students the opportunity to present their findings in front of the class to work on their public speaking skills. We extend our learning into the classroom too. We take an in depth look into how several countries celebrate Christmas and we make a booklet. This too has a multipurpose learning goal. Not only do they learn more about other cultures, they have to be responsible and keep up with all of the pages in their book and finish their work in a timely manner. Executive functioning skills are important and need practice along with reading, math, and writing. We have a few more stops to make on our adventure and then it is Christmas break! Have a blessed Christmas and holiday season!

Mrs. Claire