It's beginning to feel a lot like...

things are hectic.  And crazy.  And the kids want to go on break.  And the teachers NEED to go on break.  However, let's reflect on the fun things that happen this time of year.  First, I *love* making cards for parents/guardians.  This activity is so simple, yet so significant, combining the academic element of how to write a letter as well as the character development aspect, an opportunity for the students to express an appreciation for their parents.  One of my wonderful colleagues showed me this idea of creating a present out of the card.

As the years progressed, I would spend lots of my money at Michaels and A.C. Moore buying glittery foamies to add to the card.

Inside the card we write a letter to our parents telling them what kind of present we will give them that doesn't necessarily fit in a box...

Letter paper and other kinds of writers' workshop paper can be found here!

Also around this time of year, my genius first grade team would also set up a pajamas day and watch The Polar Express.  My amazing colleagues would also buy bells for their students to wear around their necks, just like the main character. :) Because we would watch the movie in the morning, I usually did some read alouds and a craft in the afternoon.  One year, the students created a winter wonderland out of white materials:  cotton balls, Q-tips, white self-adhesive snowflakes, white crayons, etc.  Just a little opportunity for the students to exercise their imaginations...

I hope every teacher has a wonderful holiday season, a Merry Christmas, a happy and healthy New Year, and most importantly, a fabulous break!!!