Homework is a core pedagogical tool used by schools around the world. Yet concern for heavy homework load has been raised regarding stress on students and families and how it may overshadow opportunities for non-academic development. Drawing support from Self-Determination Theory and Hope Theory, an innovative intervention project was designed to…

This article is part one of a two-part series aimed at providing elementary physical education teachers with resources, ideas and activities that align with unique holidays throughout the academic year. It includes ideas for the months of January through May.

Presents a collection of holiday-related winter activities for elementary students. November activities celebrate the Great American Smokeout, National Children's Book Week, National Geography Awareness Week, and Thanksgiving. December activities celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and the coming of snow. Hands-on activities include cooking,…

The authors describe how they started a holiday mural project for students in different grades. They discuss how Gustav Klimt became the inspiration for this project. Klimt is an artist known for his "painted mosaics." The authors decided to use a theme that was decorative and enchanting, containing all of the jewel-like qualities that a holiday…

Activities that explore the history of the New Year tradition in the United States and other countries help students gain a better understanding and appreciation of other cultures. (DF)

Designed for children ages 8 to 13, this teaching resource presents an explanation of seasons, calendars, and why people celebrate particular days. The four seasons are discussed. Canada's national holidays, and the seasonal, social and religious holidays celebrated by diverse Canadian culture groups are described. A separate section presents…

Traces the historical background of 12 December holidays from around the world. (JMB)

Presents instructions for a number of simple Christmas and Hanukkah decorations that children can make. (SJL)

Poetry that relates to the beliefs and actions of Martin Luther King, Jr. can be used to help students appreciate the civil rights leader's contributions, examine their own aspirations, and critically analyze poems. A reproducible poetry page is included. (IAH)

Presents a Christmas story intended to be read aloud to primary grade children. (JMB)

Presents several pages of teaching ideas and activities for elementary school teachers. Many of the activities have a Christmas theme. (JMB)

The author describes an activity day during the Thanksgiving Day holidays in which games of physical skill were developed dealing with themes of turkeys, Pilgrims, and Indians. (MJB)

Suggestions for decorating pumpkins using paint and other materials are offered. Many imaginative pumpkins are pictured. (MT)

This seasonal idea/activity book for grades 1-6 features interesting facts on the origins of traditions and customs of spring and summer festivals from around the world. There are numerous hands-on art activities, a map of each country or continent of the activity's origin, and a brief explanation of each tradition. Areas and countries of the…

The informal curriculum centering on holidays in elementary education often ignores cultural and individual differences among students. School holiday celebrations may have serious consequences for the following dimensions of schooling: (1) aesthetic; (2) curricular; and (3) socio-emotional. Teachers can provide options for all students by making…