Unit Study: Preschool Holidays

Target Age Group:

Preschoolers (Ages 3-5) Grade Level: Pre-K

Goals:

By the end of this unit study, preschoolers will be able to:

1. Identify and name different holidays celebrated throughout the year.
2. Understand the cultural and historical significance of each holiday.
3. Recognize holiday symbols, traditions, and activities.
4. Develop fine motor skills through arts and crafts activities related to holidays.
5. Gain a basic understanding of holidays’ impact on communities and families.

Schedule: 5-Day Plan

Day 1: Introduction to Holidays

• Introduce the concept of holidays and their importance.
• Discuss different holidays celebrated in the community.
• Read books about holidays.
• Arts and Crafts: Create a holiday calendar.

Day 2: Winter Holidays

• Explore winter holidays (Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, etc.).
• Discuss holiday symbols, traditions, and activities.
• Read books about winter holidays.
• Arts and Crafts: Create holiday ornaments.

Day 3: Spring Holidays

• Discover spring holidays (Easter, Passover, Earth Day, etc.).
• Learn about the cultural and environmental significance of these holidays.
• Read books about spring holidays.
• Arts and Crafts: Create Earth Day-themed artwork.

Day 4: Summer Holidays

• Explore summer holidays (Independence Day, Canada Day, etc.).
• Discuss holiday celebrations and activities during the summer months.
• Read books about summer holidays.
• Arts and Crafts: Create patriotic crafts.

Day 5: Fall Holidays

• Discover fall holidays (Halloween, Thanksgiving, Diwali, etc.).
• Learn about the historical and cultural background of these holidays.
• Read books about fall holidays.
• Arts and Crafts: Create pumpkin-themed crafts.

Resource List:

Books:

1. “Holidays Around the World: Celebrate Hanukkah” by Deborah Heiligman – Amazon Link
2. “The Story of Easter” by Patricia A. Pingry – Amazon Link
3. “Diwali” by Hannah Eliot – Amazon Link

Videos:

1. “Holidays Around the World” by Kids Learning Tube – YouTube Link
2. “The Passover Story” by Kids Learning Tube – YouTube Link
3. “Thanksgiving Day Song” by Patty Shukla – YouTube Link

Arts and Crafts:

1. Holiday Calendar – Create a calendar with pictures representing different holidays.
2. Holiday Ornaments – Create ornaments inspired by different winter holidays.
3. Earth Day Artwork – Create a collage using recycled materials for Earth Day.
4. Patriotic Crafts – Create crafts with patriotic themes for summer holidays.
5. Pumpkin Crafts – Create pumpkin-related crafts for fall holidays.

Adapt and customize the activities based on the interests and abilities of the preschoolers in your unit study. Have a festive and educational time exploring holidays with your young learners!