Evergreens

LESSON 4

Children engage in a hands-on exploration of Yule traditions and evergreen symbolism, fostering a deeper understanding of cultural practices.

  •  Twig/grapevine wreaths

  •  Evergreen branches

  •  Dried florals (optional)

  •  String or ribbon

  •  Scissors

  • Green wire for securing greens (optional)

Materials

  • Gather materials

  • Cut out construction paper into shapes resembling the cover of the book, “The Shortest Day,” by Susan Cooper.

Preparations

  • Encourage critical thinking by prompting children to ponder the significance of adorning homes with evergreen.

  • Explain the symbolic meaning of evergreen as a reminder of the sun's return, supporting children's understanding of symbolism and metaphorical thinking.

  • Provide guidance and support as children craft wreaths using evergreens and dried florals.

  • Connect the round shape of the wreath to the everlasting circle of life, reinforcing children's understanding of natural cycles and patterns.

  • Encourage and support children as they express individuality and creativity in arranging evergreen branches on their twig wreaths.

Objectives for Teachers

  • Children recall Yule traditions and stories from previous lessons (1-3), fostering cultural awareness and memory retention.

  • Children engage in critical thinking by pondering the significance of adorning homes with evergreen.

  • Children grasp the symbolic meaning of evergreen as a reminder of the sun's return.

  • Children practice fine motor skills and creativity by crafting a wreath using evergreens and dried florals.

  • Children will connect the round shape of the wreath to the everlasting circle of life, reinforcing their understanding of natural cycles and patterns.

  • Children express individuality and creativity by arranging evergreen branches on their twig wreaths.

Objectives for Children

Collect and Connect

  • Come up with actions to the poem and practice saying it together.

Cold

Cold fingers,

Cold toes,

Pink sky,

Pink nose.

Hard ground,

Bare trees,

Branches crack,

Puddles freeze.

Frost white,

Sun red,

Warm room,

Warm bed.

Activity Flow

  1. Start today's activity by revisiting Yule traditions discussed in previous lessons, perhaps referencing the stories explored in lessons 1-3. As you look at pictures, highlight the evergreen used for home decorations. Ask your child if they know what evergreen is. Explain to your child that an evergreen is a type of plant, often a tree or shrub, that retains its green leaves or needles throughout the entire year, even during the winter season. It may be helpful to compare evergreens to trees that lose their leaves each year and talk about the differences. Prompt your child to ponder why people adorned their homes with evergreen. Then share that for many it is a special reminder of the sun's return in the spring, bringing warmth and greenery once again.

  2. Today, we'll craft a wreath using evergreens and dried florals. This wreath will hang as a reminder of the promise that, even in the coldest winter days, the sun will return, bringing warmth, light, and new beginnings. Think of our wreaths' round shape as a symbol of the everlasting circle of life, a continuous cycle of growth, rest, and renewal.

  3. Grab your twig wreath(s)– it's going to be the base of your special creation today. Take a moment with your child to look at, feel, and smell the evergreen branches you’ve collected. Encourage your child to arrange the evergreen branches on the twig wreath and to think about the patterns and shapes they’d like to create. Allow them to make creative decisions and take ownership of their wreath. For this activity, I worked alongside my children creating my own wreath. This is beneficial in many ways, for example:

  • Children learn by observation, and seeing a parent enjoy an activity sets a positive example. It reinforces the idea that engaging in creative pursuits is valuable and enjoyable.

  • The parent's enthusiasm can inspire the child to explore their own creativity and interests. It serves as an encouraging signal that trying new things and finding joy in the process is encouraged.

  • Engaging in activities together fosters a stronger bond between parent and child. Shared experiences create lasting memories and contribute to a sense of togetherness.

  • The parent's active participation provides an opportunity for the child to observe and learn new skills. Whether it's artistic techniques, problem-solving, or perseverance, the child can benefit from the parent's expertise.

  • Participating in the same activity allows for open communication between parent and child. It provides an opportunity for discussion, sharing ideas, and expressing feelings in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.

  • The parent's involvement teaches important life skills such as patience, creativity, and resilience. These skills are subtly passed on through the shared activity.

4. Once your wreaths are to your liking, grab some string or ribbon, tie everything together, and hang your wreath to enjoy its beautiful green foliage—a reminder that warmer days are ahead.