Chinese New Year

Ni Hao!  Today marks the beginning of Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year which is also known as Spring Festival.  1st graders and Kindergarten buddies learned some of the traditions behind this festive celebration.

Chinese New Year lasts 15 days and is typically celebrated with red paper cutouts with the words, happiness, wealth and longevity. Today might be a good day to spend some time cleaning. According to superstition you must clean your house thoroughly to sweep away misfortune and make way for good luck and fortune in the coming year. But don't sweep on New Year's Day or you'll sweep away the New Year fortune. Students loved learning their Chinese zodiac symbol. Our 1st grade class consists of dogs and pigs.

After learning the traditions and customs behind Chinese New Year, buddies worked together to create Chinese lanterns.  Students drew and wrote their own Chinese characters. 

Zai Jian!