Boxing Day, an English observance that encourages giving to the poor, is the perfect day to clean the closets and especially the playroom. We plan to give away some of our older toys, books, and games that are still in good condition. Now that they are busy with their new Christmas gifts, I'm sure my kids will be willing to share their past loved playthings with shelters, daycares, preschools, or other organizations.
The celebration of Boxing Day, which takes place on December 26 - the feast of St. Stephen, is a part of the holiday season unique to Great Britain. Traditionally, it is on this day that the alms box at every English church is opened and the contents are distributed to the poor. Also, this is the day that servants traditionally got the day off to celebrate with their families. It became traditional for working people to break open their tip boxes on this day. Boxing Day began in the mid-nineteenth century when the custom of tipping by rich persons to persons in service positions had apparently gotten out of hand. Children and others pretended to be in the trades and solicited tips. The custom was expanded to giving to anyone and everyone who had less money than you did, and soon the streets at Christmastime were full of aggressive soliciting of tips. To contain the nuisance "Boxing Day" was designated as the one day for giving to the less fortunate.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
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15 Minutes : Know It : Election Day
Today is an important day for this country. Today we find out who the next President of the United States will be for the next 4 years. Over the last several months I'm sure your child(ren) has noticed you watching the news or debates, listening to talk radio, or any comments you've made to your spouse, friends or neighbors.
They probably want to know more and you may be surprised with what they already know or feel. This is a great time to teach your child about the Elections and how important it is to vote.
For Younger Children
If your kids are small try using simple ways of teaching that are easy to understand. For example, practice voting at home. Vote on tacos vs. hamburgers and then tally up the results. Ask them to share their reasoning for their choices.
Older Children
Explain a little bit about each candidate. Try to be neutral with your comments so they can have the chance to create their own opinion.
Weekly Reader has a great interactive website that can teach your child more about the elections through games, quizzes and activities. Visit it HERE. Or print off a Presidential word search HERE.
Try not to make negative comments about the candidates in front of your children. It is more important to demonstrate the importance of voting rather than the particular candidate you want to win.
Remember, the best way to teach is through example, so be sure to get out there and VOTE!
For more tips on teaching your children about the election I recommend this article.
1 Hour : Make It : Bird Feeder Wreath
