We introduced the theme with books and other holiday’s people celebrate, their traditions, foods, gifts, lighting the Kinara, dances, clothing , and how many candles are lit, colors and the meaning behind each one. 7 days of celebration. We also had a parent from the Infant room come and share her holiday which was Hanukkah . She read a book, and talked about how she celebrates, gifts, lighting the Menorah and different foods they eat.
Art
Kinara- glued candles- 3 green. 3 red and 1 black
Kwanzaa Flag- Glued stripes on black paper
Unity Cup- decorated cup with confetti
Finished Holiday gifts/cards
Great room activity Friday- Decorate holiday cookies all children in the center
Math
The children used a variety of materials throughout the week that represent Kwanzaa math related to practice and build knowledge on new topics. Red, green and black candle matching, color mat pattern making with red, black and red squares, matching red, green and black objects to Kwanzaa mat, and Kwanzaa candle counting with jugs,
Motor development
The children used tongs to pick up red. green and black craft sticks, candle cork drop to fill and dump, red, green and black pom-poms with jars w/ lids to practice turning motions/closing/opening, red, green, black and yellow flower connectors to snap together and build, Kwanzaa ring toss in great room to try and make it on the peg sticks.
Sensory table
Red/green balls, holiday tree past/presents, , bells and black wire baskets
Activities
African drum and hand drums
Review on Kwanzaa- who can light the candle?
Tasted mangos
Made plantains and tasted them
Learned and named Kwanzaa crops
Dancing Rice- science experiment Friday
Great room activity- Decorate holiday cookies
Introduced Spanish holiday songs