Wow, have we ever been busy here! The children have worked very hard preparing for today's festivities. They finished painting their dragon yesterday and added sequins before the party. Emily T. brought me loads of Chinese New Year decorations this morning. Oohs and aahs could be heard as I pulled out spring couplets, good luck banners and kites. We hung these from our ceiling line to create a very festive atmosphere. We even found some Asian money in the bags and hung some of it.
When Katlyn's class joined us, the children donned their hats and I gave each a set of chopsticks. They tried vegetarian fried rice, sesame cookies, watermelon seeds, strawberry crisps (a slightly sweet round cookie) and a fortune cookie. I assumed most of the food would be left on plated but they surprised me and several asked for seconds of rice or cookies. I love children who will experiment with food!
At 11:30 we ventured outside for a bubble stomp - in lieu of firecrackers- to ring in the new year. I pulled out my collection of instruments and we handed out finger cymbals, bells, a thunder drum and clangers. Our bigger buddy friends joined us to play instruments and carry the dragon. As we began our parade other children joined us to wind around the schoolyard and through the Boxwoods and Middle School buildings. I hadn't really planned to go in buildings but sometimes the children lead the way and today was that type of day. Everyone seemed to have a good time and many pictures were taken to commemorate the day. I will post pictures as I get them to load and as I receive them from parents.
Let me thank Brienne, Kim and Jacinda for their help today. They came to watch and jumped right in to help with food, hats coats, bubbles and instruments. They even took pictures. It's great to have parents who can come in for the fun and help too.
Your children have cut card stock to make valentine cards for their school friends. As our FYI mentioned, Katlyn's class will join our class for the valentine fun. We want children to make their valentines this year so they can give a bit of their hearts through their art. I realize many people don't keep the craft supplies in their homes that I keep here (neither do most teachers) so please let me know if you need some for home.
I probably won't blog tomorrow so have a great and relaxing weekend. I know your children are ready for one!
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