These gift boxes were not empty!

 

Throughout our two week focus on Christmas, my students gave me a ton of empty gift boxes. But wait a minute, these gift boxes were not empty!

Well maybe to the untrained eye they are empty but inside each gift box was a chance for me to foster a child’s sense of community. As a child gave a box, My teachers and I had the chance to celebrate that child’s effort to bring me some joy.

As I opened another lid and peeked inside, I was found the child’s imagination at play and my imagination was sparked too.

Day after day, the children continued their pretend play. If any teacher sat down on the floor in the block center, you better believe they were going to be getting one surprise after another.

Some of our gift boxes were filled with animals, rocks, blocks, or other materials from around the classroom while others were filled with kindness, love, and laughter. It really didn’t matter what was in the box. What mattered was the giving.

Oh to be given so many gifts every single day by my students makes me a very lucky teacher indeed!

Wish you were getting as many things from your students? Just fill your classroom with empty gift boxes and you will not be disapointed.

Toys that inspire imagination!

The Amazon affiliate links below are to great gift ideas that inspire imagination!

Books about Gifts

The Amazon affiliate links below are to great books about gifts, gift giving, and gift boxes!

More to Grow On!

Give your class the gift of nothing!

Christmas Writing Station

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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