Reception children discover another culture

Kung Hei Fat Choy! Happy Chinese New Year from everyone in Reception.

Did you know that this special time, which is also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is China’s most important holiday?

This year’s celebrations began on Saturday 25 January and will last for a total of sixteen days. This is The Year of The Rat, the first of all the zodiac animals that is said to bring wealth and good fortune to people. The festival is traditionally celebrated with dragon and lion dances, exchanging gifts and the most amazing displays of fireworks and lanterns.

As part of Reception’s Literacy focus, pupils have been learning about the traditional Chinese tale ‘The Great Race’. This zodiac story tells us how the order of the twelve animals was determined long ago. The clever rat made sure that he won the race by using his cunning skills to navigate the water, persuading the kindly ox to let him sit on his back as he crossed.

Last week Reception children learned of these celebrations and got stuck in making Chinese fans. They enjoyed a musical experience learning Chinese songs and particularly enjoyed their delicious Chinese food taster experience, courtesy of chef Paul. The tasty Fortune Cookies inspired them to think of their own captions to write for their own Fortune Cookies. You’ll have to ask them!