Kindergarten has been gearing up for the holidays by discussing all types of winter celebrations, including Hanukkah. Kimmie, the Kindergarten Co-Teacher, grew up celebrating Hanukkah and shared a brief history of the holiday with the class. They talked about the magical oil, the mean King Antiochus, and Judah the Macabee. They enjoyed some gelt (gold coins with chocolate inside!) and heard a few songs.
Hanukkah is a time to give and receive presents. In Kimmie's family, instead of receiving gifts every night, they had a night of "tikkun olam". This simply meant doing a kind deed for someone else. Kindergarteners brought home a blue and yellow paper chain to help kick off the first night of their very own Tikkun Olam style of Hanukkah! Each link of the chain has a kind act for the child to complete that day.
The final list they came up with was:
1. Tidy up my room and toys.
2. Help clean up from dinner.
3. Be helpful to a teacher.
4. Hold the door for someone.
5. Write a thank you note.
6. Smile at someone new.
7. Give someone a compliment.
8. Help feed your pet. (OR Do something nice for a sibling. OR Do an extra chore.)
Families in Need
NNS families, you knew what to do! The gift sign-up sheets that were posted in the entry are almost filled, and we're so impressed with the thoughtful gifts you're giving. Because of you and your generosity, these 3 families in need will have a very full holiday season. We are so grateful!
Happy Hanukkah!