Holiday Celebrations Around the World/Family Traditions

By Cathy Abraham/2003

HOLIDAYS CELEBRATIONS AROUND THE WORLD
Curriculum Goal – Children will explore different ways in which people celebrate holidays, and foster respect for other cultures and traditions. Vocabulary: - Chanukah - Kwanzaa - Dreidel - Christmas - Ramadan Letter of the Week: C Colors of the Week: Red and Green Concepts: - Families celebrate holidays in different ways – and that’s okay - People celebrate holidays based on what they believe and where they are from - Customs and traditions are things that families do every year - People eat different kinds of food when they celebrate - A family tradition is a way of celebrating Sensory Table Ideas: Curling ribbon and blunt, round-end scissors. Teach children how to curl ribbon. Art Activities: - Children cut out a pine tree (Christmas Tree) pattern. Decorate. - Make a collage from old Christmas cards, wrapping paper scraps, etc - Christmas/holiday cookie cutter prints - Make Holiday gift wrapping paper (sponge painting, etc.) - Passover candle menorah (made out of handprint) - Kwanzaa placemat (weave even-sized red and green strips of paper) - Snoglobe (babyfood jar, silver glitter, small winter or holiday theme décor minature figure glued to the bottom. Add water. Glue babyfood jar shut) - Star of David Ornament (Children make 2 triangles out of 6 craft sticks. Glue. Place one triangle over the other at an angle, going the other way) - Pipecleaner candycanes (Twist a red and a white pipecleaner together. Bend the top down into a candycane shape; Or Make with red and white beads

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Customs Traditions Holidays Minorah Celebrate

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Tri-bead Wreath Ornament. (On a pipecleaner, alternate 3 green beads/1 red/3green beads/1 red…. Bend into a circle to make a ‘wreath’ ornament) Rudolph Ornaments (Children glue 3 craft sticks into a triangle. Add 2 eyes on the top craft stick. Glue a red ‘nose’ onto the bottom where the 2 craft sticks meet to make a triangle) Holiday Holly Wreaths (Cut out holly shapes/ red circles. Cut center out of a paper plate. Children glue holly, covering plate. Can also use tissue paper.) Pinecone Christmas Tree Ornaments. (Children paint pinecones green. Add sequins or small pieces of tissue paper that have been wadded up as ‘ornament.’ To look like a mini Christmas tree. Add a hook) Holiday Stockings (Cut out a stocking pattern. Paperpunch along the sides for children to ‘sew’ the stocking together. Add cotton around top) Salt Dough Ornaments. (See recipe) Create ornaments. Paint/decorate. Shape pipecleaners around the outline of holiday–shaped cookie cutters. Kwanzaa paper chains (red, green and black paper strips glued or stapled to interlock to make a ‘chain’ decoration) Discuss working together. Craft stick picture frame gift (Children glue 4 craft sticks into a rectangle. Let children decorate. Add a picture of the child) Footprint Reindeer (Trace children’s foot onto brown paper and cut out – or make a print from paint. These will be the head of the reindeer. Trace the child’s hands for “antlers” – or make handprints out of paint. Add nose, eyes and mouth.) Dreidel Painting (Place dreidel in paint. Spin on a piece of paper to make designs.) Variation: Use as holiday paper. Dreidel Art (Cut out a large dreidel shape. Let children paint on it with bottle washers (sponges on handles for dishwashing) dipped in paint. Kwanzaa “Candles” (Paint 3 cardboard toilet rolls green, 3 red, and 1 black. Use yellow or orange tissue paper at the top for the “flame.”); Or craft sticks Kwanzaa Necklaces. (Dye 3 groups of Mastachiolli noodles red, green and black with food coloring and alcohol. Let dry. Children can then string noodles to make Kwanzaa necklaces.) Have children draw a picture of the family traditions they do over the holidays Paint with a pine tree branch Candy Cane Marble Painting. (Cut white paper into a candy cane shape. Marble paint with red paint on candy cane shape.) Kawanzaa Goblet. (Purchase plastic ‘champagne’ glasses. Decorate.) Craft Stick “candles” (paint Kwanzaa colors, or use in a Manorah) Cut paper for at the easel in holiday-related shapes Paint on wrapping paper (or make a wrapping paper collage) Fingerpaint with red &/or green Variation: On holiday shape paper Make holiday cards Extension: Take to a local nursing home or vet hospital Make a large classroom “tree” for all of the children to draw on (decorate) In a clear, plastic hallow ornament, drip thin paint (in holiday colors). Let children swish around – making a pattern. Variation: Use confetti or ribbon

Community Time: (“Circle Time”/”Group Time”) Monday: Take dictation from the children on a large sheet of paper, displaying the responses to: “What do you do at your house to celebrate the holidays?”… Tuesday: Ask : “What things happen other places over the holidays?”… Wednesday: Ask and write responses to the question: “What words do we know that begin with the letter “C”? Thursday: Ask and discuss: “What kinds of things do other people do to celebrate family traditions?”… Friday: Recap: “What did we learn this week about celebrating holidays?” Follow with books, songs and fingerplays (included) related to the curriculum theme. Let the children know what their choices are for the morning and what activities are new in the room for the day. Dismiss the group a few at a time in fun, creative ways. Math Activities: - Candy Cane Counting Variation: Use dice. - Ornament Matching Game - Ornament Patterning/Sequencing activity - Estimation Jar (candy canes, jingle bells, etc) Home/School Connection Ideas: - Ask families to talk with their child about the family traditions at their home. Science Table Enrichments: Branches from a real pine tree, holly, mistletoe. Note: Poinsettias are poisonous; Bring in various bells for the children to explore the various sounds of each. Prop Box Ideas/Dramatic Play Enrichments: Small artificial Christmas tree and ornaments for the children to decorate and redecorate; a menorah and dreidel; Kwanzaa candles; Santa hat; stocking hat, etc. Movement and Motor: - Pin the Tail on the Reindeer (Play like “Pin the Tail on the Donkey”) - Place craft jingle bells in the center of the parachute - “Mistletoe” Game Children sit in a circle passing around 2 pieces of mistletoe. When the music stops, the 2 children that have the mistletoe stand up and blow each other a kiss; Or Make a Santa Obstacle Course Playground/Walk Activities: - On a walk in the area, encourage children take note of holiday decorations Transition/Waiting Ideas: - Tape children saying “Ho Ho Ho”. Have them guess who is talking - “If you are wearing red…”; Or “Name something begins with the letter C?” - “What does the phrase mean ‘It is better give than to receive’?”

Block Area Enrichments: (older children) Add wrapping paper, tape, bows, ribbon, and blunt scissors. Allow children to practice wrapping blocks as ‘presents.’; Or Encourage children to build a fireplace Flannel Board: Make a large “Christmas Tree” and about a dozen different felt “ornaments.” Roll the dice and have the children place that number of “ornaments” on the “tree.” Teacher Made Enrichment Ideas: - Dreidel, Santa, Christmas Tree, and the letter “C” shaped lacing cards - Small Jingle bells can be sewn onto sweatbands, or threaded onto a pipecleaner, to be used during music time or while singing Jingle Bells. - Ornament Matching Game. (Color 2 of each pattern the same, to be matched; Or Bring in 2 of each kind of real ornaments); Holiday Matching file folder - Jingle Bell bean bag toss. (Cut a large bell shape outline out of poster board. Hang jingle bells so that they dangle in the middle. Children throw bean bags, trying to get them through the center and hitting the bell, ringing it) - Holiday Magnet Bottle. Jingle bells, salt in clear bottle. Seal. Use w/ magnet - Holiday related shaped stencils. (Trace on file folder, cut out holiday shapes) - Craft stick puzzles. Line up craft sticks, glue on picture. Cut apart sticks. - A ‘Letter Box’ with small trinkets and objects, beginning with the letter “C” - Make a rebus picture chart for the salt dough activity or for making eggnog Supplemental Learning Ideas/Activities: - Gold pinecone ornaments. (Spraypaint pinecones gold. Add ornament hooks) - Add cinnamon or nutmeg to paint and/or playdough for holiday scents. - Holiday-shaped pasta gluing (Or - Color regular shaped pasta) - Make a “Bow Matching Game” with several sets of real gift bows (or pattern) - Make a holiday piñata. (Children in Mexico break a piñata for Christmas) - Holiday Bell Ornament (Paint a small Dixie Cup green or red. Thread a jingle bell through the ‘top’ to dangle inside to make a bell. Can also use a section of a cardboard egg carton to make a bell.) Make gifts for family. - Do or make something for others in the community Ex: local nursing home - Put glitter in holiday-themed salt and pepper shakers - Make a “Present” (box) size sequencing/sorting activity - “What’s Missing?” with holiday theme-related objects - Bring in scents representing the holidays (spices, extracts, pine, etc.) - Play Pictionary or Charades with holiday-theme words - Make an ornament or Santa hat-shaped journals for the children - Play “The Reindeer Pokey” (Like “The Hokey Pokey”); Or “Santa Says” - Write a group class story Ex – “Many Ways to Celebrate” Cooking Experience: Make Eggnog. Ingredients – 4 eggs, 2 tsps vanilla, 4 cups milk, 4 Tbsp honey, nutmeg. Beat until light and foamy.

Supplies needed for activities/projects: Craft Jingle bells - Red and green construction paper, paint and crayons - Glue - Cinnamon - Cottonballs - Large sheets of easel paper (dictation) - Felt for flannelboard pieces - Index cards (for Memory Game, Song cards) - Glitter - White and red pipecleaners - Green and red tri-beads - Craft sticks - Eggnog ingredients – milk, eggs, nutmeg, honey, vanilla

Gingerbread Man Dough/Ornaments Mix equal parts applesauce and cinnamon. Kneed. Cut out gingerbread shapes with a cookie cutter. Poke a hole in the ‘top’ with a straw before dry. Allow to dry about 2 days. Can decorate with white fabric paint in a bottle. Thread with string to hang.
(Decoration only – don’t eat!)

Bulletin Board Ideas: “Seasons Greetings” and “Happy Holidays” are more appropriate and diverse bulletin board headers, respecting all particular beliefs - Make a wreath from children’s handprints (cut out of green paper) - Have children bring in pictures of their family celebrating/traditions “Wrap” door or bulletin board to look like a gift “Tis the Season!”

Baked Salt Dough 2 cups flour 1 cup salt Enough water to make a dough-like mixture. Bake ‘creations’ at 300*F. for 1 hour.
(Add hooks or paper clips on the back before baking.) Paint if desired after baked.

FAMILY TRADITIONS CAN BE… The food we cook and eat Religious services or ceremonies Special clothing Decorations An activity Exchanging of gifts Gathering together

Ways People Celebrate the Holidays…
Hanukkah (or Chanukah) is the Hebrew word meaning “rededication.” Hanukkah begins on the 25th day of the month on the Jewish calendar (Kislev.) It is celebrated for 8 days in honor of the Jewish victory and the miracle of the oil lasting for 8 days to rededicate the temple – when there was only enough oil to last for one day. That is why a candle is lit every day for 8 days (menorah.)

Kwanzaa is an African-American holiday celebrating the festival of the first harvest of the crops. It begins on December 26th and lasts for 7 days. The name Kwanzaa is from the East African language Swahili word “first fruits.”

Lighting of the candles: Day 1 - Unity (Black middle candle) “Umoja” Day 2 - Self-determination (inner red candle) “Kujichaguila” Day 3 - Collective work/responsibility (inner green candle) “Ujima” Day 4 - Cooperative economics (middle red candle) “Ujamaa” Day 5 - Purpose (middle green candle) “Nia” Day 6 - Creativity (outer red candle) “Kuumba” Day 7 - Faith (Outer green candle) “Imani”

Ramadan is the 9th month of the Muslim calendar. During this month and entire cycle of the moon, the Muslims fast (do not eat) from sunrise to sunset. In the evening and in the morning before the sun comes up, they eat small meals. During this month they take extra time for family, inner reflection and spiritual growth.

Christmas is the Christian celebration marking the birth of Christ. It is celebrated on December 25th – the birthday of Jesus. The traditional story is that the virgin Mary and Joseph traveled by camel, and could not find room at an Inn. Mary gave birth in a stable. Three wise man traveled by camel, guided by a star, to see the newborn Jesus. Jesus came to earth to teach men about God.

Santa Around the World!

 In Hawaii, Santa comes by boat. In China, Santa Clause is called Dun Che Lao Ren, which means Christmas Old Man. He brings presents to good children. The German Saint Nicholas comes with a helper. (He has several names, depending on the part on Germany.) He carries a sack on his back and a rod in his hand – for “bad” children.  Swedish children wait for Jultomten – a gnome whose sleigh is drawn by “Goats of Thunder.”  In Denmark, Julemanden also carried a sack by sleigh – drawn by reindeer. Children place a saucer of milk or rice pudding in the attic for him.  In Poland the children believe their gifts are from the stars. In Hungary, children believe angels bring them.  In Syria children’s gifts come from the youngest camel on January 6th – which is Three Kings Day. In Spanish speaking countries such as Mexico, Argentina, Puerto Rico, Brazil, the Philippines and Spain, the Three Kings give gifts to the children themselves.  In Italy the children also receive gifts on Three Kings Day – but the gift bearer is La Befana. La Befana refused to go to Bethlehem with the wise men because she had not finished her sweeping. Now she goes from place to place looking for the Christ child, leaving small gifts.  In Russia there is also an ageless wanderer – Baboushka. She gave the wise men the wrong directions, and now wanders from house to house leaving gifts.  In England and France children wait for Father Christmas to bring gifts.

More About Celebrations Around the World
Germany The Christmas season in Germany begins with Advent – beginning 4 Sunday’s before Christmas Day. The Advent calendar is a calendar with windows used to count down the days until Christmas, and can be from 23 to 28 days in length. Make an Advent Calendar to use as a countdown to Christmas with your class. It is thought that the Christmas tree originated in Germany. The white pine has branches that are far apart and things can be hung from them. The trees were a symbol of good luck and fertility. Discuss what the children think the origin of the Christmas tree could be - known as the “Tannenbaum” in Germany. Children can trace around a tree pattern (on green construction paper) then cut it out. Decorate the tree with glitter, stickers, small balls of tissue paper, pompons, cereal, or sequins. Teach the children the song “Oh, Christmas Tree” (or the German version “O Tannenbaum.”) Holland In Holland, special horns are used to mark celebrations. They have a deep tone, similar to a foghorn, and are made from small saplings. Children can each make their own special horns by decorating a long cardboard giftwrap tube or paper towel tube.

England A custom in England is caroling – known as Wassailing. People walk up and down the streets or go door-to-door singing carols. To keep warm they sip a hot punch-like drink. Make a version of wassail punch with your class and sing carols up and down the hall, or room to room. Add a few cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, and a sliced orange to apple juice. Serve warm if possible. Popular traditional British carols are “Deck the Halls” and “We Wish You A Merry Christmas.” Sending Christmas cards also originated in England. Children can make Christmas cards to give to a family member.

Mexico Children in Mexico break a piñata with family and friends. Make a piñata with the children by decorating a paper lunch sack, then filling it with candy. Tie piñata closed. Blindfold the children and take turns trying to break it open with a stick. The Piñata Poem I am a holiday piñata, Hanging from a tree. Children hit me with a bat, And treats pop out of me!

The Netherlands In the Netherlands, St. Nicholas (Sinterklass) was reported to be a real person who secretly gave food, clothes and toys to poor children. As a tradition, Dutch children fill their shoes with hay for St. Nicholas’s horse and wake to find their shoes filled with candy and nuts. Before naptime, allow the children to place hay (or craft raffia) in their shoes and leave them outside of the room during rest time. While the children are asleep, remove the hay and place a piece of candy in them. As a project, you can also make 2 ‘wooden shoe’ patterns out of brown paper grocery bags. Children can ‘stuff’ them with hay, stapling them closed.

Scandinavia In Scandinavia, outside trees are decorated with edible ornaments for the birds. Make bird-feeder ornaments with the children and hang on the trees.

dreidel pattern

‫נ‬

‫ג‬

‫ה‬

‫ש‬

To Play: Each player is given a number of coins, candy or raisins. Each player places the same number in the middle in a “kitty” (Kupah.) Players takes turns spinning the dreidel. Players follow the directions below, with children being “out” of the game when they have no more pieces.

‫ב‬ ‫ג‬

None – no win/no lose Take all from kitty

‫ ח‬Take half from kitty (the pot) ‫ ש‬Lose – put all in kitty

Websites: http://christmas.com/worldviewT www.santas.net/aroundtheworld.htm www.perpetualpreschool.com/holiday_themes/christmas www.californiamall.com/holidaytraditions

Books: Felix’s Christmas Around the World by Annette Langen Christmas Around the World by Emily Kelley Christmas Around the World by Mary D. Lankford Merry Christmas Everywhere! by Arlene Erlbach Light the Lights – Story of Celebrating Hanukkah & Christmas Hanukkah by Cathy Goldberg Fishman Hanukkah! by Roni Schotter Blue’s Clue’s Chanukah by Jessica Lissy Sammy Spider’s First Hanukkah by Sylvia A. Rouss Happy Hanukkah, Biscuit! by Alyssa Satin Capucilli Hello Santa! by Catherine Lukas The Brightest Star by Alyssa Satin Capucilli The Kwanzaa Celebration Pop-up Book by Nancy Williams Horrible Harry and the Holidaze by Suzie Kline The Story of Kwanzaa by Donna L. Washington My First Kwanzaa Book by Deborah M. Newton The Seven Days of Kwanzaa by Angela Medearis 7 Spools of Tread: A Kwanzaa Story by Angela Medearis My First Kwanzaa by Karen Katz Ramadan by Suhaib Hamid Ghazi Celebrating Ramadan by Diane Hoyt-Goldsmith Magid Fasts for Ramadan by Earl B. Lewis Ramadan by David F. Marx

Melted Snowman Ornament
Children pour a large blob of white glue onto waxed paper. Add a loop of yarn at top to make the hanger. Child can then add silver or white glitter. They then put 2 small paper eyes on, a small piece of orange pipecleaner for a nose, and 2 small sticks for arms. When dry (after a couple of days), peel off of waxed paper.

Recipe for Latkes
4 large potatoes 1 small grated onion 1 egg 2 t. matzoh meal (or flour) 1 t. salt Grate potatoes and press out as much liquid as possible. Mix in onion, egg, seasoning and matzoh meal. Cover bottom of frying pan with cooking oil. Heat. Drop large spoonfuls into hot oil. Fry each side until crisp and brown. Note: Since hot cooking oil is involved, this should be done out of range of children. Latkes are a traditional Jewish food.

Christmas Tongue Twisters
Can you say these three times... fast? Seven Santas sang silly songs. Santa's sleigh slides on slick snow. Bobby brings bright bells. Running reindeer romp 'round red wreaths. Tiny Timmy trims the tall tree with tinsel. Chilly chipper children cheerfully chant. Two trains travel together to Toyland. Eleven elves licked eleven little licorice lollipops. Santa's sack sags slightly. Ten tiny tin trains toot ten times. Santa stuffs Stephen's striped stocking. Cindy cuddles cute Christmas kittens carefully.
HAVE FUN MAKING UP YOUR OWN!!

Sparkling Peppermint Play Dough
2-cups warm water, 2-cups flour, 1-cup salt, 4 teaspoons cream of tartar, 4 tablespoons oil, 4 tablespoons peppermint extract, Red food coloring Combine all ingredients mix with wooden spoon until mixture thickens and pulls away from side of bowl. Add red food coloring.

Holiday File Folder Matching Game
Make 2 copies of this page. Cut out one set and glue onto the inside of a file folder. Cut out a second set then glue onto index cards. Laminate or cover with contact paper to make more durable. To Play: Children match pictures.

Holiday Greetings from Around the World
Australia Mexico Brazil Canada China Italy Japan India Denmark Egypt Spain United Kingdom Kenya Happy Christmas Feliz Navidad Feliz Natal Joyeux Noel Sheng Tan Kuai Loh Buon Natale Merii Kurisumasu Shub Christu Jayanti Glaedelig Jul Mboni Chrismen Feliz Navidad Happy Christmas Merry Christmas

HOLIDAYS AROUND THE WORLD
Variation: A class can study one holiday each day by reading a story and doing an art project. At the end of the unit at a holiday celebration, eat one special food representing each of the holidays. Have a multicultural celebration at end of the week.

Christmas Book: The Night Before Christmas Project: Making paper stockings (children trace a tagboard stocking tracer stencil onto red construction paper, glue on some cotton at the top, write their name in glue and sprinkle glitter on it). Holiday Party Foods Hanukkah Christmas: Candy canes Book: Latkes and Applesauce and Hanukkah: Gelt (chocolate coins) The Chanukah Guest by Bernard Most Las Posadas: Pinata with candy. Project: Make latkes. La Befana: Sugar cookies St. Nicholas Day: Oranges Las Posadas Kwanzaa: Raw vegetables Book: 9 Days to Christmas by Marie Hall Ets Pancho's Pinata by Stfan Czernecki and Timothy Rhodes Project: Make a pinata (to be broken at the holiday party.) La Befana Book: The Legend of Old Befana by Tomie dePoala Project: After discussing the concept of miracles, the children write a story - "It would be a miracle if __________." Each child gets to share their story with the class. St. Nicholas Day Book: A Gift From St. Nicholas adapted by Carole Kismaric Projects: 1. Each child writes a wish list. 2. As a group activity, we wrap up a gift (lifesavers) in several boxes within boxes. Then, read clues as opening each box, finally revealing the lifesavers. Kwanzaa Book: Imani's Gift at Kwanzaa by Denise Burden-Patman Project: Making mkekas (placemats). Weave placemats using black construction paper and strips of green and red paper. Eat on our mkekas at the holiday party.

Fingerplay cards

One Little Christmas Tree
One little Christmas tree, standing all alone His heart very sad, ‘cause he hadn’t found a home. Then chop went an axe, and down fell the tree And off he went with a happy family!

The Star
I made a pretty star today, to top my Christmas tree; With silver, gold, and glitter – it’s shiny as can be! And when I place it on the top, Dad says it looks just fine. Although it’s not a store-bought one, He loves it ‘cause it’s mine!

Stocking By the Fireplace
Stockings by the fireplace, for mom and dad and me. Stockings by the fireplace – count them: 1, 2, 3. Daddy’s is the biggest; Mom’s is trimmed with lace. And mine you’ll know - by the hole in the toe! 3 stockings by the fireplace!

Santa’s Reindeer This reindeer maps out the way; (thumb) This reindeer heads up the sleigh. (index finger) This reindeer’s nose lights up the sky; (middle finger) This reindeer helps fly the team high. (ring finger) This reindeer helps with there’s no snow; (pinky) This reindeer knows just where to go. (other thumb) This reindeer watches all the toys; (other index finger) This reindeer checks odd girls and boys. (other middle) Hurry, Everyone! Santa’s late!

5 little Christmas cookies on a plate by the door, (5 fingers) 1 was eaten – then there were 4. (hold up 4 fingers, etc…) 4 little Christmas cookies, gazing up at me, 1 was eaten – now there were 3. 3 little Christmas cookies, enough for me and you, 1 was eaten – now there were 2. 2 little Christmas cookies, sitting in the sun, 1 was eaten – now there was 1! 1 little Christmas cookie, better grab it fast! As you can see, the others didn’t last!

Presents!
See all the presents by the Christmas tree? (Hand shades eyes, ‘looking’ motion) Some for you (point to children) And some for me! (point to self) Long ones (extend arms), Tall ones (put hand over head) Short ones too! (make ‘small’ present motion) And here is a round one (circle motion), wrapped in blue Isn’t it fun to look and see (‘looking’ motion) All of the presents by the Christmas tree?

The Menorah Candle
I’m a menorah candle (stand, point at self) Growing shorter you can see (bend down slowly) Melting all my wax (go down more) Until there’s nothing left to see! (sit down)

my dreidel
I have a little dreidel. I made it out of clay. And when it’s dry and ready Then with it I will play!

Kwanzaa Song tune: “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” Kwanzaa is a time to light A glowing candle every night A time to show How much we care A time to think about the past And values that we want to last

Kwanzaa comes along Just one time a year We’re so happy it’s come Weave a m’keka, let’s drink From the kikumbé, zawadi For everyone Celebrate for seven days Light the Kinara, let’s let The holiday shine Let’s all get the Kwanzaa spirit And we’ll have a real good time HAPPY KWANZAA!

KWANZA'S HERE Tune: "Three Blind Mice" Red, green, black, Red, green, black. Kwanzaa's here, Kwanzaa's here. The decorations are quite a sight, We light a candle every night, The holiday is filled with light. Kwanzaa's here!

THE LATKES ARE FRYING IN THE PAN
(Tune: When Johnny Comes Marching Home) The latkes are frying in the pan, hurrah, hurrah! The latkes are frying in the pan, hurrah, hurrah! And when they have cooked up nice and brown, We'll take them out and sit right down And we'll eat those yummy latkes this Hannukkah night!

Eight Little Candles in a Row
Eight little candles in a row, Waiting to join the holiday glow. The first night we light candle number one. Hanukkah time has now begun. The second night we light candles one & two. Hanukkah's here--there's lots to do. The third night we light up to three. Hanukkah's here---there's lots to see. The fourth night we light all up to four, Each now a part of the Hanukkah lore. The fifth night we light all up to five, Helping our Hanukkah come alive. The sixth night we light all up to six. Happy candles---happy wicks. The seventh night we light all up to seven. The glow of each candle reaches to heaven. The eight night we light all up to eight. Hanukkah's here----let's celebrate!

Hanukkah File Folder game: www.preschoolprintables.com/filefolder/hanukkah/filefolderdreidel.shtml

LIGHT THE CANDLES BRIGHT
(Tune: "The Farmer In The Dell") Oh, light the candles bright, And dance around the light. Heigh-ho the derry-oh, It's Hanukkah tonight. Spin the dreidel round, And watch it falling down. Heigh-ho the derry-oh, It's Hanukkah tonight. Latke treats to eat, And family to greet. Heigh-ho the derry-oh, It's Hanukkah tonight.

A RAMADAN POEM
THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN FOR THE MUSLIMS HAS BEGUN PRAISING GOD THROUGH THE DAY, FROM DAWN TO DUSK WE FAST AND PRAY. WE PAY ZAKAT (CHARITY) FOR THOSE IN NEED, TRYING OUR BEST TO DO GOOD DEEDS. WHEN THE SUN HAS SET, AND DAY IS DONEI'LL BREAK THIS CHAIN, BUT ONLY ONE. BY THE END OF RAMADAN, THIS WHOLE CHAIN WILL BE ALL GONE! IT'S TIME TO CELEBRATE AND SHARE IN THE FUN!!!

More Holiday Poems, Rhymes & Songs

Santa
Two merry blue eyes A very little nose A long snowy beard And cheeks like a rose A round chubby man A big bulging pack Hurrah for Old Santa We're glad he's come back!

Little Pine Tree
In summertime my branches were a place for birds to nest, In autumn my branches were their place for food and rest, And now that wintertime is here, I hope to be all glistening bright with snowflakes... The little birds' Christmas tree!

Christmas Wreaths
Our Christmas wreaths are fat and round, Made of the woodsy things we found. We tied brown cones upon the green, And stuck red berries in between. Upon the wreath on our front door, We tied red ribbon from the store.

A Christmas Tree
One little star on the top of the tree, Two little presents underneath for me, Three silver ropes twisted around the tree, Four colored lights shining prettily, Five shining balls flowing silvery. Oh, what a sight for use to see!

I've Been Waiting For Christmas
I've been waiting for Christmas, And it's almost here. I've been waiting for Christmas, Santa's getting near. Can't you hear the sleigh bells ringing? Reindeer up so high. Can't you hear the children singing, As they watch the sky?

Reindeer Hokey Pokey
You put your antlers in, You put your antlers out, You put your antlers in and you shake them all about. You do the Reindeer pokey and you turn yourself around, That's what it's all about! You put your hooves in… - You put your red nose in… - You put your fluffy tail in… - You put your reindeer body in…

Here's A Little Candle
(Tune: I'm a Little Teapot) Here's a little candle dressed in white, Wearing a hat of yellow light, When the night is dark, then you will see, Just how bright this light can be.

Here's a little candle straight and tall, Shining its light upon us all, When the night is dark, then you will see, Just how bright this light can be.

Here's a little candle burning bright, Keeping us safe all through the night, When the night is dark, then you will see, Just how bright this light can be!

We'll Decorate the Tree
(Tune: Farmer in the Dell) We'll decorate the tree, We'll decorate the tree, Heigh-ho, it's Christmastime, We'll decorate the tree! - The presents we will wrap... - Carols we will sing... - We'll bake lots of cookies... - We'll all wait for Santa…

There Was A Man
(Tune: BINGO) There was a man in a big red suit and Santa was his name-o S –A- N- T -A (Repeat 3 times) And Santa was his name-o!

Christmas Tree Story
Deep down in the forest when trees grew so tall, Stood one little fellow, the smallest of all. The trees waved their branches and rustled their leaves, But the smallest of all just stood stiff in the breeze. When Winter winds howled, The trees were afraid, And dropped their leaves, Till there was no more shade. The smallest of all just stood brave and tall, And kept his green coat when snow started to fall. One day laughing children came pulling a sleigh, They cut on him gently and pulled him away. They dressed him in tinsel and bright shiny balls, In peppermint canes, tiny angels, and dolls. And on Christmas morning 'twas easy to see--The smallest of all was the loveliest tree!

December
It's hard to think of anything But Christmas in December. There's so much to look forward to And so much to remember!

Outside there's a pine tree standing straight and tall. It need no decorations--nature's done it all. Pinecones on its branches with icicles glistening bright, Snow upon its needles and birds at rest from flight. I see it from my window, and take the time to say, Thank you for your beauty, tree, on this Christmas day. Hang this on your Christmas tree, To remember how I used to be. To remind you of me Now and then, And bring fond memories Back again.

Christmas Countdown
How many days till Christmas? It's mighty hard to tell. Take off a link every night When the Sandman casts his spell, And Christmas Eve will be here By the time you reach the bell.

Yummm, the smell of Christmas is everywhere I go, Evergreens and holly, and pretty mistletoe, Gingerbread and cookies, and fresh pumpkin pie, Smoke is in the chimney, curling to the sky.

Good morning to the presents Good morning to the elves Good morning to the workshop at the pole. Good morning to the reindeer Good morning to the sleigh Good morning to the Santa we all know!

My Peppermint Stick
(Tune of “Brownie Smile”) Oh, I took a lick of my peppermint stick, and I thought it tasted yummy. It used to be on my Christmas tree, but I like it better in my tummy.

Day Before Christmas
We have been helping with the cake And licking out the pan And wrapping up our packages As neatly as we can. We have hung our stockings up Beside the open grate. And now there's nothing more to do Except… To… Wait!

Children’s Holiday Music on CD/tape: “Holiday Magic” by Hap Palmer “Holiday Songs & Rhymes” by Hap Palmer (Hap-Pal Music, Inc.) “Tis the Season” by Fred Koch (Melody House, Inc.) “Holiday Times” by Ella Jenkins (Smithsonian Folkways Recordings) “The Christmas Gift” by Charlotte Diamond (Hug Bug Records)

Call Rudolph
Eight little reindeer pulling Santa's sled One fell down and bumped his head. The elves called Santa and Santa said, "Can seven little reindeer pull my sled?" (count down)… One little reindeer pulling Santa's sled, He fell down and bumped his head. The elves called Santa and Santa said, "Call Rudolph!"

What Shall We Give the Children?
What shall we give the children? The holidays are almost here. Toys and games and playthings, As we do every year? Yes, for the magic of toyland Is part of the holiday lore To gladden the heart of childhood. But I shall give something more. I shall give more patience. A more sympathetic ear. A little more time for laughter, Or to tenderly dry a tear. I shall take time to teach them The joy of doing some task. I’ll try to find time to answer More of the questions they ask. Time to read books together And take long walks in the sun. Time for a bedtime story After the day is done. I shall give these gifts to my children, Weaving a closer tie, Knitting our lives together With gifts that money can’t buy.

- Author Unknown

Dear Families –

As the holiday season approaches, we would like to invite you to share any holiday traditions you have, as well as any items or activities that represent the cultural celebrations of your family. We strive to be respectful and sensitive to the beliefs of all of our families – and impart a message of tolerance, diversity, and a broader awareness of others. In this spirit, our goal is to introduce and recognize the validity of all of the various beliefs and traditions of the season. We also feel it is important to respect the role and rights of individual families to choose and present religious beliefs to their children, therefore we will not be focusing on any specific religious aspects of the holiday. Please share with us what holiday traditions make this a joyous time of year for your family and your child(ren), if you would like. We view ourselves as a partner with parents – and recognize the unequaled significance of family. As always, your input and suggestions are welcome here – and assist us in improving and enhancing our program.

Happy Holidays!!!

The History of Hanukkah
Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated for eight days, commencing on the 25th day of the month of Kislev (November/December), to commemorate the victory of the Jews over the Hellenist Syrians in 165 BCE. Following their victory, the Maccabees, sons of the Priestly Hasmonean family which led the Jews in their revolt against the Syrian overlords, entered the Holy Temple in Jerusalem defiled by the Syrian invaders, cleansed it and dedicated it anew to the service of God. Then, in memory of their victory, the Maccabees celebrated the first Hanukkah. (Hanukkah is the Hebrew term for dedication.) The Talmud, the body of Jewish oral law, relates how the Judean heroes, led by Judah Maccabee, were making ready to rededicate the Temple and were unable to find enough undefiled oil to light the lamps. However, in one of the Temple chambers, they finally came upon a small cruse of oil which, under normal circumstances, would have lasted only one evening. Miraculously, this small amount of oil kept the Temple lights burning, not for one night, but for all the eight nights until new oil fit for use in the temple could be obtained. This is the miracle commemorated by the kindling of the Hanukkah lights. Lights, Symbolism and Blessings The most important observance associated with Hanukkah is the kindling of the Hanukkah lights on the Menorah or Hanukkiya, a seven- or nine-branch candelabrum. On each night more light is kindled, beginning with one candle on the first night of Hanukkah and ending with eight on the final evening. The lighting is accompanied by the chanting of appropriate blessings and the singing of songs. The ninth branch is reserved for the shamash, the servant light, which is lit first and used to kindle the other lights of the Menorah. In a broader sense, however, the Hanukka light symbolizes the light of religious, national and cultural freedom won by the Maccabees for their people. It gave new force to the faith that had waned under the influence of Hellenism and Jewish culture began to flourish again. Also the Hebrew language, which had been largely supplanted by Greek, came into its own once more. After seven years of fighting, during which Judah won a number of battles over the Syrian armies, he returned with his followers to Jerusalem, determined to cleanse and rededicate the Temple which had been desecrated by Antiochus. When it came time to light the Holy Light they found just one jar of oil, enough to light the lamp for only one day. It would take eight days to prepare fresh consecrated oil. Miraculously, one jar of oil burned eight days and eight nights. Since that time Jews have celebrated the miracle of the light as well as the miracle of the weak triumphing over the strong. They praise God for delivering the few out of the hands of the many, the believers in God out of the hands of the wicked. Each night of the festival, the family gathers around the menorah, a special candelabrum that holds eight candles. On the first

night the head of the family uses a helper candle called a shamos to light one candle; on the second night two candles are lit, and so on, until all eight candles are lit on the eighth night. Each night gifts are given and children play games with a small four-sided wooden top called at dreidel. On each side of the top is one letter of NGHS which stands for Nes Godol Hoyoh Shom which means "A great miracle happened there."

While the Kwanzaa celebration is a seasonal event, the principles used in celebrating are meant to be a year-round way-of-life.

What is Kwanzaa?
KWANZAA, the African-American spiritual holiday was formulated, devised, developed and initiated by Dr. Maulana Ron Karenga on December 26, 1966. The operational under pinnings are based on the cultural principles of a theory called Kawaida. The Kawaida theory premise is that social revolutionary change for Black America can be achieved by the act of revealing and disclosing individuals to their cultural heritage. Kwanzaa is a spiritual, festive and joyous celebration of the oneness and goodness of life, which claims no ties with any religion. The focus of Kwanzaa is centered around the seven principles (Nguzo Saba) with particular emphasis on the unity of our Black families. It is a time for gathering of our families, and for a rededication to manifesting the principles of Kwanzaa (Nguzo Saba) as a way of life for Black Americans. Kwanzaa has definite principles, practices and symbols which are geared to the social and spiritual needs of African-Americans. The reinforcing gestures are designed to strengthen our collective self-concept as a people, honor our past, critically evaluate our present and commit ourselves to a fuller, more productive future. Kwanzaa is a way of life; not just a celebration. As a living social practice, it is a week of actual remembering, reassessing, recommitting, rewarding and rejoicing. For evaluation of ourselves and our history, we relate to our past, reassess our thoughts and practices, and recommit ourselves to the achievement of Black liberation and the betterment of life for all Black Americans. Finally, the concept of Kwanzaa, the African-American holiday, is to help Black Americans relate to the past in order to understand the present and deal with the future.

KWANZAA BOOKS FOR CHILDREN "Kwanzaa: Origin, Concepts, Practice" by Maulana Karenga "Lets Celebrate Kwanzaa: An activity Book for Young Readers" by Helen Davis-Thompson "The African American Celebration Of Kwanzaa" by Maulana Karenga "Kwanzaa an Everyday Resource and Instructional Guide" by David Anderson "Kwanzaa, An African American Celebration Of Culture and Cooking" by Eric Copage

THE SYMBOLS OF KWANZAA MKEKA - The Mkeka is a straw mat on which all the other items are placed. It is a traditional item and therefore symbolizes tradition as the foundation on which all else rests. KINARA (Kee-nah-rah) - The Kinara is a candle-holder which holds seven candles and represents the original stalk from which we all sprang. For it is traditionally said that the FirstBorn is like a stalk of corn which produces corn, which in turn becomes stalk, which reproduces in the same manner so that there is no ending to us. MSHUMAA (Mee-shoo-maah) - The seven candles represent the Seven Principles on which the First-Born sat up our society in order that our people would get the maximum from it. They are Umoja (Unity); Kujichagulia (Self-Determination); Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility); Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics); Nia (Purpose); Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). MUHINDI (Moo-heen-dee) - The ear of corn represents the offspring or product (the children) of the stalk (the father of the house). It signifies the ability or potential of the offsprings, themselves, to become stalks (parents), and thus produce their offspring -- a process which goes on indefinitely, and insures the immortality of the Nation. To illustrate this, we use as many ears of corn as we have children which again signifies the number of potential stalks (parents). Every house has at least one ear of corn; for there is always the potential even if it has not yet been realized. KIKOMBE CHA UMOJA (Kee-coam-bay chah-oo-moe-jah)- The Unity Cup symbolizes the first principle of Kwanzaa. It is used to pour the libation for our ancestors; and each member of the immediate family or extended family drinks from it in a reinforcing gesture of honor, praise, collective work and commitment to continue the struggle began by our ancestors. ZAWADI (Sah-wah-dee) - The presents (gifts) represent 1) the fruits of the labor of the parents, and 2) the rewards of the seeds sown by the children. Parents must commit their children to goodness which to us is beauty. We must commit them to good acts, good thoughts, good grades, etc., for the coming year and reward them according to how well they live up to their commitments. Goodness, again, is beauty and beauty is that which promises

happiness to the family and community. For all acts, thoughts and values are invalid if they do not in some way benefit the community. KARAMU - The feast symbolizes the high festive celebration that brings the community together to exchange and to give thanks to the Creator for their accomplishments during the year. It is held on the night of December 31 and includes food, drink, music, dance, conversation, laughter and ceremony. BENDERA YA TAIFA - The flag of Black Nationalism symbolizes the struggle of Liberation. The Red represents the blood of our ancestors; Black is for the collective color of all Black people, and Green reminds us of the land, life and new ideas we must continue to strive to obtain. TAMBIKO - Symbolizes the libation by which honor is given in a special way to our ancestors and a call to carry out the struggle and the work they began. It clearly symbolizes the recognition of and respect for the contributions of those before us, our history and the models it offers us to emulate. HARAMBEE - Symbolizes a call to unity and collective work and struggle. HABARI GANI - Swahili term used when greeting others. KWAHERI - Swahili term used as an expression of parting with good wishes and an expectancy to meet again. SCHEDULE FOR KWANZAA CELEBRATION Kwanzaa is a family affair and seeks to reinforce the bonds between parents and children, and to teach parents and children new views and values that will aid them in self-consciousness and providing support and defense for our people. Therefore, Kwanzaa is the time when Black Americans get together to give thanks, and to enjoy the blessings of living and acting together as a family. December 12 - Begin to schedule meetings with family members to assign tasks for the Kwanzaa Celebration. December 19 - Gather and arrange Kwanzaa symbols and any other decorations. Arrange the symbols on a low table or on the floor. - Spread the Mkeka (Straw Mat). - Place the Kinara (Candle Holder) in the center of the Mkeka. - Place the Muhindi (Ears of Corn) on either side of the Mkeka. One ear of corn for each child in the family. - Creatively place the Zawadi (Gifts), Kikombe Cha Umoja (Unity Cup); Tambiko (Water and Soil), and a basket of Mazao fruit on the Mkeka. - Hang up a Bendera Ya Taifa (Flag of the Black Nation). It should be

facing the East. - Place Mishumaa Saba (Seven Candles) in the Kinara. Remember the Mishumaa should be red, black and green. Use any creative match you desire. Examples - Three Red; Three Green; One Black; Two Red; Two Green; Three Black Begin using the greeting "Habari Gani" and the response "Nzuri Kwanzaa, Nguzo Saba". Note: the response changes on the first day of Kwanzaa to Umoja, on the second day to Kujichagulia, etc. A week of fasting, from sunrise to sunset, to cleanse the body, discipline the mind and uplift the spirit is suggested. On the first day of Kwanzaa (December 26) the Mtume (leader or minister) calls the family together. When everyone is present, the Mtume greets them; Habari Gani, and the family responds Umoja. THus the Kwanzaa celebration has begun. The celebration is conducted in the following order, substituting each principle for the response on its respective day. A prayer is offered by a member of the family (all standing). Harambee (Let's Pull Together) is a call for unity and collective work and struggle of the family. --Each member raises up the right arm with open hand and while pulling down, closes the hand into a fist. --Harmabee is done in sets of seven in honor and reinforcement of the Nguzo Saba. The Kwanzaa Song can be used at this time. The Mtume briefly talks about the concept of Kwanzaa, using the theme or focus of Kwanzaa as a sense of direction. The Tambiko (Libation) is performed by an elder. The elder should pour the libation using juice or water from the Tambiko set up in honor of ancestors. Harambee Symbol. Greeting should be done by the family member (preferably a youth) assigned the lighting of Mshumaa (candle). Lighting Ceremony is performed by the Youth. The Youth should light the Mshumaa (candle) for the principle of the day (i.e. Umoja (Unity) on the first day of Kwanzaa). After the lighting, the principle of the day should be discussed by every member participating in the ceremony. The discussion should focus on each member's understanding of the principle and their commitment and responsibility to practice that principle for the betterment of self, family and Black people. Share Zawadi (Gifts). In Kwanzaa gifts are played down and spiritual and social rejuvenation is played up. Hand made gifts are strongly encouraged over commercial purchases. Items related to the Black heritage or items that have a special meaning that will help the person through the next year are strongly recommended. The gifts should be reflective of a commitment to education and the riches of our cultural heritage and a sign of the struggle for liberation for Black people. The gifts can be fruits shared each night by members. The gifts can be given to the children in one of two ways: One gift can be given each day to reinforce the principle for that day, or on December 31st during the Karamu (Feast), all gifts can be given. Karamu (Feast) is held on the night of December 31st. and includes food, music, dance, etc. .

THE KWANZAA SONG Kwanzaa is a holiday Kwanzaa, Kwanzaa, Kwanzaa Is an African holiday Seven Principles Seven Candles Seven Black days for the African HAPPY KWANZAA!!!

From: New Perspective Technologies Company, A Jordan Family Enterprises Company

What is Ramadan?
Ramadan (rom-a-don) is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. During this month, Muslims do not eat or drink during the daylight. This is called fasting. Each day during Ramadan, Muslim families get up early before sunrise to eat a morning meal together and to perform the Fajr (fah-jar) prayer. Once the sun has set, families gather together once again and eat. This is known as Iftar (if-tar). Ramadan is an important social and religious time for over a billion (1,000,000,000) Muslims throughout the world. It is considered to be the holiest period of the Islamic Year. Ramadan ends with a celebration called 'Eid-Ul-Fitr (eed-al-fitter), or the Festival of Fast-Breaking. 'Eid-Ul-Fitr' lasts for three days. During the celebration, children are given gifts or money by their parents and relatives

Gifts of Significance
What shall I give my child this year? Looking through isles of toys and games I wondered, what would be something that my child would treasure and create lasting memories? What would I really like to give my child, if I could? The gift of family legacy. This year I will read the Christmas cards we get to my child and explain who Great Aunt Ruth is and the things she did in her life. The gift of patience and memories. This year I will not rush my child when we are baking cookies, wrapping gifts or decorating – and not be concerned about how things “look.” The gift of understanding. I will not yell or think of my child as ungrateful when I step on pieces from new games. The gift of family history. This year I will make sure the camera has film and I will get the pictures developed before the end of the year. The gift of compassion. I will teach my child by example and let him see me give to the Salvation Army bell ringers. The gift of giving. My child and I will adopt a child from a local “Giving Tree” project. The gift of love. I will hug my child just a little bit tighter and sit at my child’s bedside a few minutes longer watching him sleep – for the mothers that want desperately want to and can’t this year.

By Cathy Abraham

Patterns for lacing cards:
How to use these as patterns: Cut out ‘objects.’ Trace onto a hard stock paper (or a file folder.) Cut out, and use as stencils for math games, flannel board pieces, lacing cards or to make puzzles.

Note: Some copy machines can enlarge pictures.

Poem for Handprint gift(s): Add childs’ name and the year

Sometimes you get discouraged because I am so small. And always leave my fingerprints on furniture and walls. But everyday I’m growing up and soon I’ll be so tall that all those little handprints will be difficult to recall. So here’s my little handprint that you can put away. And you will know how my fingers looked With love on this Holiday!