Teaching About the Holidays

It is that time of year again. The dilemma continues to arise about how to address the holidays with your students. How to decorate your room- how to explain the significance of the holidays- should you have a party in your classroom- and so on.

How do you respond in a politically correct manner?

Here are a few caveats.

1)   Hanukkah is not the “Jewish Christmas.” Although the holiday commemorates a significant historical event, it is not a major holiday. There are no special services in synagogues and temples for the event.

2)   ) Kwanzaa is a cultural holiday rather than a religious one.

3)   Diwali, The Hindu Festival of Lights, was celebrated in October.

4)   Christmas is both an historical and religious holiday and is celebrated by millions around the world, so it gets the most attention.

You may get questions like “Why are schools closed for Christmas and not the other holidays?

What should you say when someone wishes you a “ Merry Christmas?”

The Scholastic website offers teaching suggestions for celebrating.

c.2017 J, MargolisHow