Isn’t it a strange feeling when our children have no idea, not seen or even know about things that used to be a big part of our lives, such as VHS, floppy disc, and games like Tic-Tac-Toe, and my once favourite Cat’s Cradle (翻花绳)! What memories or stories do you have relating to these things? Every one of us is a walking library of stories – if you think hard enough and are willing to share!
If you do have some of these “outdated items” at home, dig them up and share with your children how they came about, what they were used for and any related memorable stories! This may also be a chance to de-clutter your home… if you are ready to let go of these items!
Don’t worry if you don’t have any of these at home. We at Reading Panda have created a simple Christmas themed bookmark craft work for you and your children to enjoy making together! Simply click here to download our craft for FREE (current Reading Panda box subscribers would find a coloured printed copy of this craft included in your December subscription box.)
Reading Panda’s Christmas Bookmark Corner – make yours now!
After finished making the bookmark, show your child how it is used. Older kids might have come across the term “bookmark” but in the context of the World Wide Web! The physical exercise of making a bookmark and seeing how it is used for will give our children a new dimension of the term “bookmark”, making the word more meaningful and giving it some deserved history!
Should you be running out of ideas on what to do together with your children this long school break / Christmas period, try showing them our childhood games which are often forgotten or replaced by iPads and TVs! (click on the links to refresh your memories if needed!)
- Cat’s Cradle
- Marbles (3 fun ways)
- Hand clapping games (variations with a bit of history for you too :D)
- Tic-tac-toe (with a modern twist that involves running)
- Shooting goals with paper and a pen (射龙门),
- etc. etc.
Earlier in the month, I showed Axel how to do a “double star” using an elastic band whilst waiting for our food to arrive at a restaurant. He was simply mesmerised and refused to put down the elastic band until he succeeded after trying for 15mins or so! Since then he always keeps a rubber band in his pocket and been creative with what he can do with it.
There must be one from the list above that would resonate with your child. Try them together and most of all HAVE FUN TOGETHER!
Christmas is a season of giving and sharing. We hope you all have a wonderful time with friends and family, and a lovely festival filled with laughters, stories, and many happy memories!!
Merry Christmas to you and your families!
