Today in class we had a New Years’ party! The kids all sat for circle time, in the center, I laid out a bunch of beaded necklaces. Before they all got up and started grabbing them I explained how they would get one.

One at a time they would choose a necklace, give it to a friend, and wish them a “Happy New Year.”They could not complain about what color they got, they simply needed to say, “Thank You.” For a three/four-year-old not getting the exact one they had their eye set on was a difficult task alone.

One by one they handed the necklace to a friend. Some wanted a different one. But the rules were to just say, “Thank you“. There were many sighs and tossing back of the necklace because it was not the one they wanted.

We went for the second round. Same rules, but they had to give the necklace to a different friend. Watching them see who did not get one yet or watching them put it on themselves instead was all part of the lesson of learning to give. Which comes with struggles and successes.

At a young age, you see it you want it….giving up something you want is not easy. I find even as an adult the lesson of giving is still a conscious choice, and still one some can struggle with. But if we start showing kids examples at a young age the joy of giving alone becomes a gift.

When we were done each child had two necklaces and they were so happy. I complimented them on “giving” and looking at all the smiles around the room.

I then passed out the rest of the New Years’ party favors and we celebrated! We celebrated with excitement and noisemakers….welcoming a new amazing year!