The Tu B'Shvat Experience, Exploring the Holiday through a Reggio-Inspired Lens

Celebrating Tu B'Shvat, also known as the New Year for Trees, was an engaging experience at Giving Tree Early Learning.  Each classroom was tasked with setting up and arranging Tu B'Shvat inspired provocations and invitiations in the cafeteria.  There were a variety of activities set up to engage children of all ages.  Light tables were set up in the far corner and sensory tables in the center of the cafeteria.  Each light table and sensory table filled with intriguing and natural materials.  Pink and green elements were seen to celebrate Tu B'Shvat and emphasize the importance of trees in Israel. Both families and children spent time immursed in play at these areas. 

Teachers created activities that were geared towards specific skills like sorting, counting, dramatic play, fine motor skills, and creative expression that incorportated the seven species of Israel.  These activities were set up throughout the cafeteria for families to move freely, visiting each provocation.  

To tie the event together, families were invited to paint branches, decorate our Giving Tree with beads, and write their names on ribbons and tie them to the tree.  This allowed our program to put emphasis on Tu B'Shvat and show the significance of trees in Israel while incorporating how much we value our families in our school community.