Everyday holiday play in the preschool classroom

During the holidays, it seems there is much to do in a short amount of time from parent gifts, to hand painted wrapping paper and pretty made Christmas cards to baking cookies and making decorations for the classroom.   All of these tasks are part of my holiday planning but in the midst of making so many things, I also want to make sure that my students are given ample time for holiday play…

We have a small Christmas tree in our classroom that the children decorated all by themselves.  The tree is sitting over in our dramatic play center. The children can decorate it, undecorate it, stack gift boxes under it, or incorporate it anyway they wish as part of their holiday play…

We also have a variety of magnetic gift boxes, tags, and bows to invite pretend play.  My students spend a big part of their play giving gifts, pretending to open them up, and acting all excited about their imaginary gifts…

 Mrs. Courtney and I spend a big part of our day pretending to open up gifts too!  You can read more about our magnetic gift boxes and bows by clicking on this post

The children also enjoy a little holiday play by filling up empty tins with items from around the classroom and adding a magnetic bow or gift tag to give as pretend gifts…

And don’t forget the holiday sensory play…

My students love diving into our candy cane shave cream play…

And how about holiday fine motor play…

There are lots of ways to promote play during the holiday season and over the next few weeks, I will be sharing with you some of the things we are making and doing to celebrate the holiday season in our classroom but keep in mind, every day – we take time for holiday (and unholiday) play…

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Deborah J Stewart

Deborah J Stewart

Every time I think I know everything I need to know about teaching young children, God says, "Hold on a minute!" and gives me a new challenge.

Let me tell ya...

With each new challenge that you overcome, you will find yourself better equipped and more passionate about teaching young children.

God didn't call wimps to lead, teach, or care for His children. Nope, he has high expectations, so get ready. You will have to give your very best but after teaching for over 30 years, I can tell you that it is a wonderful and rewarding journey.

Whenever your calling feels hard, just remember, 'He who began a good work in you (and in the children you serve) will be faithful to complete it.'

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