A Few of Our Favorite Things: Snowflakes, Hot Chocolate, and Class Parties!
It's time to start planning for your class holiday party! Thanksgiving break is over and everyone's attention is now on the next big event, winter vacation! Start planning now in order to have a stress-free, festive and fun holiday party for the whole class.
Tips for a successful holiday class party:
- Celebration Check: Ask the teacher for school policy on what holiday or holidays can be represented at the party. Many public schools opt for inclusive "Winter-themed" class parties -- think snowpeople, sleds and paper snowflakes.
- Craft Projects: Plan a craft that can be easily completed in 10-15 minutes and fits with the suggested theme. Ensure the craft parent volunteer has EVERYTHING needed and brings full craft kits (glue, scissors, etc.), also a trash bag for clean up. Don’t assume the teacher will provide all items. Check out page 14 of our class party planner for winter party craft and game ideas!
- Gift Exchange: Instead of small presents, consider asking kids to bring a wrapped gently-used book to trade with their classmates during the party.
- Party Favors: Hand out colorful, themed pencils, holiday stickers or other school supplies as party favors or as prizes for games.
- Snacks: Keep it simple and portable and plan extras for the teacher, staff and parent helpers. Are there allergies or school guidelines to consider? Popcorn, mandarin oranges, cheese sticks and hot cocoa are always a simple and healthy hit; and Cindy at FixMeaSnack has this awesome recipie for chewey granola bars (and it's nut free).
- Decorations: A colorful tablecloth, balloons, and hand-cut paper snowflakes are inexpensive and go a long way to making a room look festive. Add some fun holiday music to complete the mood.
- Memories: Pick a volunteer to take photos or videos of the party and share with the parents who could not come.
- Relax and have fun! Your kids love having you help in their class. School's out and it's on to winter vacation!
Here's to a fantastically planned class holiday party and a wondrous holiday season with your family!
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