"Classical" Christmas is an exciting time for
students as it is, but it can get even more exciting if you start exploring how
Christmas is celebrated around the world!
Christmas celebrations have found their way into all parts of the globe. Whether it is an
official holiday, or just celebrated by a specific community in a given
country, the holiday assimilated local customs, creating a very special
Christmas experience in every region of the world. For example, imagine
Christmas in the tropical regions!
Here are some reasons why you should go beyond your backyard and teach your students about
Christmas around the world this season.
Studying cultural diversity
Teaching your students about how Christmas is celebrated around the world will enrich their cultural
awareness, their perception of the human diversity, and of course - it can be
fresh and fun.
By looking at interesting customs from other countries,
children will naturally feel the sense of awe related to cultures different
than theirs. This will make them appreciate other societies' traditions and the
diversity that the world offers, making them less susceptible to become
close-minded as they grow up.
The fun of the unusual
Your community's version of Christmas must be beautiful, but
as children grow up, they might get a bit tired of repetitions. Older students
are always interested in the offbeat and the unusual. Studying Christmas
cultural practices worldwide might be just what you need to keep them interested
in this part of your curriculum.
Imagine what Christmas would be like Down Under, where Christmas celebrations are the beach are very popular.
Putting exchange students in the spotlight
If you have exchange students in your class or those that
have permanently moved from another country which celebrates Christmas, ask
them to do a show-and-tell presentation about their community's Christmas
customs. If they don't have any items to bring with them, they can just prepare
a slideshow which tells a story about their traditions and rituals, and perhaps
include a Christmas-related family photo. That will help the new student's
confidence by giving him or her a special role. Also, it is always amazing how
children can engage and inspire one another.
Different, but the same
Studying various customs dedicated to the same holiday
teaches kids a valuable lesson - that people might differ in their ways
superficially, but that the essence is the same. People around the world can
share the same values, even though the superficial variability might seem
significant at first glance.
You can expand this story by explaining that all world
religions and beliefs essentially share some basic ideas - that people should love one
another, seek peace, help out to those in need, and refrain from doing things
that hurt others.
There are many easily available online resources to help
you find the most interesting examples for your students. No matter which ones
you choose, remember to keep the lessons light and enjoy the Christmas trip
around the world together with your class.
Looking for some low
prep options this Christmas to explore Christmas Around The World? Why not check out my Christmas Around The World Celebration Booklet, Christmas Around The World Research Project, or Christmas Around The World Scavenger Hunt? Students love these around the world Christmas resources and
learn so much about diversity from them.
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