Holidays Around The World: Valentine's Day Celebrations in Grades PK

Valentine's Day, a holiday celebrated worldwide on February 14th, is not just for adults in love. Even the little ones in pre-kindergarten, or PK, get to join in on the fun. This special day provides an opportunity for educators to teach young children about love, friendship, and kindness, as well as the diverse ways the holiday is celebrated across the globe. In this article, we will explore the various Valentine's Day customs and activities conducted specifically for PK students in different countries.

Understanding Valentine's Day

Before diving into the specific PK celebrations, it's essential to understand the origins and significance of Valentine's Day. Historically, the holiday originated from ancient Roman festivals celebrating fertility and the beginning of spring. However, it wasn't until the 14th century that Valentine's Day took on romantic connotations through the works of famous writers and poets.

In PK classrooms around the world, educators introduce this holiday as a celebration of love and kindness. Following this , teachers can begin exploring different traditions and activities from various countries to provide a well-rounded understanding of Valentine's Day.

Holidays Around the World Valentine's Day, Grades PK - 1

by Angie Franssen(Kindle Edition)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2636 KB
Print length	:	16 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Valentine's Day Celebrations in Grades PK

United States

In the United States, Valentine's Day in PK classrooms is all about friendship and sharing. Students craft personalized Valentine's cards for their classmates, using construction paper, crayons, and stickers. The cards often feature messages like "You're sweet!" or "Be my friend!" This activity encourages children to express their feelings towards their peers and promotes a sense of inclusivity in the classroom.

United Kingdom

Across the Atlantic, PK celebrations in the United Kingdom involve making heart-shaped crafts and learning about traditional British customs. Students bring in wooden clothespins and colorful tissue papers to create "love bugs." The children can also dress up as characters from British fairy tales like Prince Charming and Cinderella, adding a touch of creativity and storytelling to the holiday.

France

France, famously known as the land of love, holds a special place for Valentine's Day celebrations in PK classrooms. French teachers introduce their young students to the art of letter writing. Children are taught to express their feelings through handwritten love notes or "billets-doux." These love letters are then exchanged within the classroom, encouraging children to communicate their emotions in a thoughtful and heartfelt manner.

Japan

In Japan, Valentine's Day celebrations in PK classrooms are an expression of gratitude and friendship. Students learn the art of origami and create heart-shaped paper pieces to exchange with their classmates. Additionally, they participate in a unique tradition called "Giri Choco," where children give chocolates to not only their friends but also their teachers as a gesture of respect and gratitude.

South Africa

In South Africa, Valentine's Day falls during the summer season. PK classrooms in this country celebrate by engaging in outdoor activities. Students create heart-shaped sandcastles on the beach or participate in water play with heart-shaped floating toys. These activities provide an opportunity for children to enjoy the warm weather while also incorporating Valentine's Day themes.

The Importance of Valentine's Day in PK

Valentine's Day celebrations in PK classrooms serve multiple purposes. Firstly, they teach young children about diverse cultures and traditions around the world. By exploring different customs, students develop an appreciation for global diversity and become culturally sensitive individuals.

Secondly, engaging in Valentine's Day activities fosters creativity and fine motor skills in PK students. From crafting personalized cards to creating heart-shaped crafts, children get the chance to explore their artistic side and learn to work with different materials. These activities also enhance their hand-eye coordination and dexterity.

Lastly, celebrating Valentine's Day in PK promotes social-emotional development. By exchanging cards or participating in acts of kindness, children develop empathy and understanding. They learn the importance of friendship, gratitude, and expressing their emotions in a positive way.

Valentine's Day is not just an occasion for adults; it is a holiday that spans across all age groups. In PK classrooms around the world, educators embrace this holiday as an opportunity to teach young children about love, friendship, cultural diversity, and kindness. By incorporating activities and traditions from different countries, students develop a well-rounded understanding of Valentine's Day while engaging in creative, educational, and emotionally enriching experiences. So, the next time Valentine's Day rolls around, make sure to spread the love and celebrate it with your little ones in PK!

Holidays Around the World Valentine's Day, Grades PK - 1

by Angie Franssen(Kindle Edition)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2636 KB
Print length	:	16 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Valentine’s Day comes every year. Let’s make valentines, give candy and flowers, and say “I love you!” Holidays Around the World: Valentine's Day gives young readers in prekindergarten to grade 1 an to what the holiday means and how people celebrate this special day.

World holidays are an integral part of early elementary social studies curriculums. In this series, early readers will learn about foods, celebrations, and customs from a variety of cultures around the world. Each book features callouts that match glossary words to images, as well as comprehension questions for further learning.