Why Teach About Lunar New Year?

Teaching about the Lunar New Year in primary school can be valuable for several reasons, contributing to a well-rounded and culturally aware educational experience for students. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider incorporating the Lunar New Year into your curriculum this year:

• Cultural Diversity: Introducing students to the Lunar New Year provides an opportunity to celebrate and appreciate cultural diversity. It helps create an inclusive learning environment where students can learn about customs, traditions and celebrations from different cultures.
• Global Awareness: Teaching about the Lunar New Year contributes to global awareness. It helps students understand that people worldwide celebrate different holidays and festivals, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and global citizenship.
• Cross-Cultural Understanding: Learning about the Lunar New Year encourages cross-cultural understanding. It allows students to explore the customs and traditions of Chinese and other East Asian cultures, promoting respect and appreciation for cultural differences.
• Enhanced Social Studies Curriculum: Integrating the Lunar New Year into the social studies curriculum provides a practical and engaging way to teach concepts such as traditions, celebrations, and cultural heritage. It aligns with broader learning objectives related to community and cultural studies.
• Celebrating Diversity in the Classroom: If there are students in the class who celebrate (or their families celebrate) the Lunar New Year, learning about it in the classroom allows them to share their cultural experiences, fostering a sense of pride and connection with their heritage.
• Fostering Respect and Tolerance: Teaching about different cultural celebrations, including the Lunar New Year, promotes respect and tolerance. It helps students appreciate the richness of cultural diversity and encourages an attitude of openness and acceptance.

Lunar New Year Facts for Children

Lunar New Year craft activities are fun, but to turn them into a more meaningful learning experience, link them with student knowledge and understanding with this PowerPoint all about the Lunar New Year. This teaching presentation includes the following information:

• What is Lunar New Year?
• When is the Lunar New Year celebrated?
• How do families celebrate the Lunar New Year?
• What do the different Lunar New Year decorations mean?
• What do families eat during this celebration?
• What are some of the different traditions?

Lunar New Year Activities for Kids

In the classroom, celebrating Lunar New Year can be a fun and engaging way to teach students about different cultures. Here are a few ideas for how to celebrate in the classroom:

• Start by teaching students about the history and customs of the Lunar New Year, such as the zodiac animals associated with each year, the traditional foods and decorations, and the significance of the holiday in different cultures.
• Have students create traditional Lunar New Year decorations like paper lanterns or red envelopes filled with chocolate coins.
• Cook or taste some traditional Lunar New Year dishes in class.
• Share stories, pictures, or videos of the celebrations in different countries or regions.

It is important to approach any cultural celebration in the classroom with sensitivity and to be sure to include diverse perspectives and stories.

This resource was created by Lisamarie Del Valle, a Teach Starter Collaborator.