It’s about that time again when the mass exodus occurs here in Shanghai for the annual Spring Festival to celebrate the new lunar year! You may notice the streets are a bit emptier and quieter. Not such a bad thing, right? Many families take this time to go away on holiday as well. For others, it is a time to gather together and welcome a new lunar year with lots of delicious family meals and fun traditions. What are some of your fun family traditions?
With the holidays in full swing at Busy Bee (and centres closed until February 13th), the learning doesn’t need to stop there. Here are three fun ways to teach your little bees about Chinese New Year!
Activity #1: Chinese Zodiac
Go through the different animals of the Chinese zodiac and see how many animals your tiny tots can name. The order goes like this: rat, ox (cow), tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. There is also a great story about the zodiac and the great race that you can find online and talk about with your little one. This is a great way to learn about the Chinese Zodiac.
Activity #2: Make Dumplings
This is a fun cooking activity you can do at home while working gross motor skills. Find an easy recipe to make with your child and set aside an afternoon to make this delicious and traditional dish. You can serve them boiled or fried!
Activity #3: Red Envelopes
Using red paper and glue or tape, make simple red envelopes with your tot. You can also decorate them with gold glitter or stickers. You can explain that these are special envelopes you give and receive during Chinese New Year to celebrate the coming year.
We wish you all a very safe, fun and prosperous Chinese New Year! Looking forward to a happy, exciting and fun Year of the Pig! Thank you for all your support!
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Have a BEE-utiful day!
BUSY BEE EDUCATION