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Celebrating the Chinese New Year in the Classroom

January 19, 2017

Happy New Year…again! January 28th is the first day of the Chinese New Year. This colorful festival traditionally begins on the first day of the Chinese calendar and ends on February 15th. Over the past decade, Chinese New Year has spanned far beyond China to become a global phenomenon. If you’re trying to get your students or kids involved in the festivities, here are a few ways to celebrate the year of the rooster.

Create “Good Wishes” Posters

Usually found at the entrance of homes and storefronts, the Chinese believe in spreading positivity and encouragement through these banners, so spread the joy this year and create your own.

What you’ll need:

  • Red construction paper
  • Black paint
  • Water
  • Paint Brushes
  • Chinese characters with a positive meaning
  • Gold glitter

Step 1: Research Chinese characters online and find your favorite word or phrase.

Step 2: Water down the black paint by mixing it with water. Now the texture will feel more like ink.

Step 3: Paint your message onto red or yellow construction paper. If you’re not comfortable drawing it freehand, create a stencil by printing and cutting the character out.

Step 4: Once the paint is dry, outline the character in clear glue and sprinkle gold glitter on it.

Host a Chinese Potluck

Food in Chinese culture often holds a lot of meaning to those who eat it, so celebrate the New Year with a potluck. Teach students about other culture’s foods by having each one bring in a dish of:

  • Fish – a symbol of prosperity
  • Dumplings – representing wealth
  • Rice cake – for career advancements
  • Noodles – for happiness and longevity
  • Tangerines and oranges – a symbol of fullness and wealth

 

As you prepare your classroom for the Chinese New Year, don’t forget to take a look at your classroom’s furniture and equipment! If you notice that your furniture seems run down and outdated, contact Nickerson Corporation for help! In addition to supplying classrooms with new furniture, we are also available to perform routine maintenance and inspections to your existing furniture. To schedule an appointment, give us a call at (631) 666-0200 today!