Over the past two weeks, Kindergarten students explored the rich diversity of winter holiday traditions from around the world, focusing on understanding and connecting with different cultures.
They began by sharing traditions from their own homes before boarding their classroom “airplane,” eagerly awaiting their next destination and the chance to discover a new country and its winter celebrations.
This year, they journeyed to India, Sweden, Italy, Mexico, France, and Israel. In India, students revisited Diwali and learned how families celebrate with lights, colors, and special traditions. Sweden’s Santa Lucia Day came to life through a special visit from Sierra Canyon parent Anait Khdryan (Zoe ’38), who shared Swedish customs and stories. Students also traveled to Italy to learn about La Befana, the kind witch who is said to bring gifts to children on the eve of Epiphany. Guided by our own Ms. Allyson Oliva, students experienced Las Posadas in Mexico and savored tamales and churros provided by parent volunteers. They also explored Noël in France, learning about Père Noël and the ways families prepare for Christmas, and celebrated Hanukkah in Israel by examining symbols such as the menorah and dreidel. Throughout their travels, they created themed crafts, read stories, and completed activities that brought each holiday to life and sparked thoughtful conversations about cultural similarities and differences.
Kindergarten will close out its winter holiday celebrations by exploring the traditions of Kwanzaa and will continue learning about cultural celebrations as they transition into the spring.
At Sierra Canyon, we believe that embracing many cultures and perspectives strengthens our entire community. In Kindergarten, students are not just learning about holidays; they are developing the understanding and respect that will guide them as thoughtful global citizens.
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