In many countries, including the United States, the New Year is a time for self-reflection and goal-setting. Introduce students to the tradition of New Year's resolutions by having them write an acrostic poem with the letters in "New Year." To help students with this activity, provide an example or two. For instance, "No more fighting with siblings" for the "N" or "Eat three servings of vegetables daily" for the "E." Encourage students to list realistic and measurable goals.
In many Asian cultures, including Chinese culture, it is tradition to exchange red envelopes among close friends and family. Red envelopes typically hold money, but may also hold a special note or poem wishing the recipient good fortune in the new year. Have students write a note or poem to a special person, place it inside a red envelope and then decorate the envelope with glitter, ribbons and stickers before gifting.
For a fun and easy class activity, have students take turns sharing a favorite memory or experience from the past year. Ask students to come to class with a picture or photograph to show the class when presenting. Then, make and decorate magnetic frames for the pictures. Simply cut a frame out of foam fabric and attach magnetic strips to four sides of the frame on one side. Decorate the frame with glitter and puff paint pens. Write the year, if desired.
In Greece, the first day of the year corresponds with the feast day of St. Basil, a father of the Greek Orthodox Church. Hence, New Year's day festivities are influenced by traditions in honor of this saint. One such tradition is the Vassilopitta, which is a cake that is baked with a silver or gold coin. The recipient of the piece containing the coin has good luck throughout the New Year, according to tradition. For a classroom variation of this tradition, have students decorate a cupcake with frosting, sprinkles and other candies. However, see that one of the cupcakes is baked with a coin (or piece of chocolate) at the bottom. When students have finished decorating, invite students to unwrap and eat their cupcakes to reveal the lucky student.