As Lunar New Year is fast approaching, February 10th, it's the perfect time to engage your kids in a meaningful and festive activity that blends creativity with goal setting. The Good Fortune craft is designed to not only celebrate cultural traditions but also encourage children to express their hopes and aspirations for the upcoming year.
Red envelopes, or "hongbao," are a symbol of good luck and prosperity in many East Asian cultures during the Lunar New Year. They are traditionally filled with money and given as gifts to convey good wishes for the recipient. Our craft activity takes this traditional concept and transforms it into an interactive and imaginative experience for children.
I have taken this idea and created a fun, easy craft to use in the classroom. There are many different styles to choose from! You can choose which works best for you. Each envelope comes with six designs. Kids can color in the designs with colored pencils, as the examples show. You can also use paint, pastels, or crayons.
There are two types of writing paper depending on the envelope you choose. Each writing paper comes in three styles of lines for printing. Again, this to meet the needs of your room. There is even a brainstorming sheet of goals/wishes students have for themselves, their friends and family. I have also included a blank brainstorming sheet as well. This is if you have specific areas of interest, you want your students to target.
Once the red envelope is complete, encourage your students to proudly display their creation in a special place. This can serve as a visual reminder of their goals and the joyous spirit of the Lunar New Year. Additionally, consider sharing their craft with friends and family to spread the festive cheer.
I understand that each child is unique, and my goal is to provide a customizable experience that accommodates various learning abilities. I do my best to include various choices for you, as the teacher, to choose from. I hope that it helps make your lesson just a little bit easier to teach!
If you have never celebrated Lunar New Year and aren’t sure where to start, I have also included a list of books for you to read. This is an amazing holiday with many things to learn about. Lunar New Year is celebrated in many different countries with different traditions in each. This is a great way to learn more about your students as well. Many probably celebrate this holiday at home!
Our Lunar New Year Red Envelope Craft is more than just an art project; it's a meaningful way to celebrate cultural traditions while fostering goal setting and creativity in your child. Make this Lunar New Year unforgettable by engaging in this enriching activity that combines tradition, reflection, and a touch of artistic magic.
Lunar New Year Read Alouds for the Classroom
xo, Christina