Christmas is approaching, but so are six other major holidays:
CHANUKAH
December 19–26, 2022*
8 day Jewish “Festival of Lights" also known as Hanukkah
*The first lighting of the menorah will occur at sundown on December 18
YULE
December 21, 2022
a Wiccan or Pagan celebration of the Winter Solstice
KWANZAA
December 26, 2022–January 1, 2023
7 day celebration honoring African American heritage
MAKAR SANKRANTI
January 15, 2023
Hindu seasonal celebration marking turning of the sun toward the north
WORLD RELIGION DAY
January 15, 2023
Bahá’í observance to proclaim the oneness of religion
LUNAR NEW YEAR
January 22, 2023
A holiday marking the end of winter celebrated in east and southeast Asia
Here are tips on practicing inclusivity in the child life setting this winter holiday season:
1. Call this time of year “Winter season” or “winter holiday season” without any specific references to holidays or religions
2. Make activities and decorations as generic and non-holiday as possible, focusing on seasonal images like snowflakes, snowmen, sweaters, and hot chocolate and utilizing colors/color combinations not associated with a specific holiday
3. Give families the opportunity to opt out of any seasonal or holiday activities
4. Use the winter season as an educational opportunity for the holidays that are celebrated.
Resources
Downloadable Christmas is approaching graphic 2022
Downloadable Practicing Inclusivity in the Child Life Setting Graphic
Winter Season Printable Activities and Coloring Sheets
Anti-Bias Education and Holidays: Making Thoughtful Decisions Blog post from the National Association for the Education of Young Children.
Happy Winter Season from ACLP!
Written by ACLP staff with contributions by Jacquie Rahm, CCLS