(Grades 4-6)
In the Being a good neighbour video, Squeaker wonders how we can recognize Veterans for the important work they have done. One of the best ways to do this is to follow their example. Even the smallest act of kindness can have a big effect if we all lend a hand and work together.
Help students show their appreciation by creating a “lend a helping hands” wreath. Each wreath will contain handprints decorated with ideas for how each student will contribute to helping other students in their class or members of their community. Completed wreaths can be hung in the classroom or laid during a Remembrance Day ceremony. You could also give your wreath to a Veteran guest speaker to show them how their work has inspired students.
Making a "lend a helping hands" wreath
Pass out green construction paper to your students. Ask them to trace one of their hands on the piece of paper. Students can write on the fingers of their traced hand 5 ways they could help other students in their class or members of their community.
Encourage younger students to think of something they could do to help others in their class if they were having a hard time/day (i.e., give a compliment, be a friend, help with reading, be kind, smile, share, etc.). Older students can think more broadly about helping in their community, nationally or internationally. This is an opportunity for students to think about their own strengths.
Materials needed:
- Green, red and black construction paper
- Glue sticks
- Scissors
- Pencils and markers
Step one
With a pencil, each student should trace their handprint onto sheets of green construction paper.
Step Two
On each of the five fingers, write ways they can help at home, at school or in your community (i.e., I will share, I will pick up litter, I will be kind, etc.)
Step Three
Cut out the hand prints and glue them together in the shape of a wreath.
Step Four
Decorate the wreath with red construction paper poppies or other remembrance pictures.