Holidays --Their Place in Your Program

Lucky for us -when we celebrate these holidays school's out but if you wanted to include these, you wouldn't have any problems- why? Because these are about celebrate their new country and many immigrants respect that. They might not participate in all the activities but will not mind the subjects because of the historical context.

What to include?

That depends on you as an educator and the center/school where you work at. Take a look at your children and found out from them and parents what holidays are celebrated. Which ones aren't? Which ones are offensive? Which ones aren't?

Then we look at your goals and objectives and the time you have to meet these. Some of them might be to learn about the world and the children in your classroom. Others might be to develop a more religious focus. Can you steer away from some holidays by concentrating your program on other things such as seasons or food (just to give a few examples)?

If you decide to include religious holidays, be prepared to include Ramada, Kawanza, Hanukah, Chinese New Year, Black History Month, Passover and others that would reflect the students within your classroom.

Note: There are many different cultures, religions and traditions in our world. Keep the communication lines open. Tell your parents what you would like to do within your class and let them tell you how to deal with their children. Whatever their decision is, I can't stress enough, RESPECT THEIR WISHES. Whether they choose to join in or not, it is not based a personal reflection on you and your traditions, don't take it personally.

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