Objective
By the end of this lesson, the 2-year-old student will have a basic understanding of Lunar New Year and its traditions.
Materials and Prep
- Red construction paper
- Scissors
- Glue stick
- Markers or crayons
- Optional: Lunar New Year decorations (if available)
No prior knowledge or preparation is required for this lesson.
Activities
- Create a Red Envelope: Cut out a rectangle from the red construction paper and fold it in half. Help the student glue the sides together, leaving the top open. Explain that red envelopes are traditionally given during Lunar New Year with money inside as a symbol of good luck.
- Coloring Dragon Masks: Print or draw a simple dragon mask outline on a piece of paper. Let the student color the mask using markers or crayons. Explain that dragons are an important symbol during Lunar New Year parades and celebrations.
- Sing a Lunar New Year Song: Teach the student a simple Lunar New Year song, such as "Gong Xi Gong Xi." Sing the song together and encourage the student to clap along to the rhythm.
Talking Points
- "Lunar New Year is a special holiday celebrated by many people around the world."
- "During Lunar New Year, people give red envelopes to each other as a symbol of good luck."
- "Dragons are important during Lunar New Year because they bring good luck and protect people from bad things."
- "Let's make a red envelope together. We will cut the paper, fold it, and glue the sides. Now it's ready to give to someone!"
- "Now, let's color the dragon mask. Dragons have long bodies and can fly in the sky. Use your favorite colors to make it look beautiful!"
- "We can sing a fun Lunar New Year song. It goes like this: Gong Xi Gong Xi. Can you clap along with the song?"