A Christmas Party to Remember: My Experience with My Mom’s Grade 3 Class

Even though I am not a student in elementary school, I can feel the warmth of acceptance and happiness of the children in my mother's Grade 3 class. Here's my story of one of the funnest Christmas parties I've ever had.

As a BSEd Social Studies student, I am required to observe classes as part of my field study requirement. I was assigned to a Grade 8 class in high school, but since my mentor was a subject teacher who didn't have his own classroom, I often went to my mom's classroom to spend time there. During my stay there, I gradually became close to his Grade 3 class.

I never thought that the hours of observing and staying inside my mother's classroom would bring such a valuable experience to me. Honestly, I'm happy because I had the chance to see two different worlds—the more matured high school and the more colorful and cheerful elementary school.

On the day of their Christmas party, I was very happy to go back to my mom's classroom. As soon as I entered, the children greeted me with big smiles and shouts. "Ate Rose has arrived!" The warmth of their welcome is truly heart-warming. I could feel their excitement and joy that day.

My Role in the Christmas Party

My mother, who is their adviser, asked me for help to organize games for the party. Of course, I made sure they were fun and unique. Here are the games I chose for them:

Tilapia Game
A game where you have to use a paper fish and fly it with a fan until you reach the finish line. Everyone laughed as they struggled to move their "tilapia."

Pass the Ball Game
While the music is playing, the ball must be passed to the children. When the ringing stops, the ball holder has to dance or sing.

Straw Game
In this game, one has to move a cotton ball from one container to another using only a straw that is blown. It's hard but it's so much fun!

Ice Cream Yummy Game
When I say “Ice” they stand up, when I say “Cream” they squat, when I say “Yummy” they find a partner.

After all the games, almost all the kids said, "The games were fun, Ate Rose! You're a great organizer!" For me, their smiles and laughter are reward enough.

One of my most touching parts of the Christmas party was the gift exchange that took place. It's not just the simple giving of a gift that's important, but seeing the excitement and appreciation of everyone for what they received. It's also fun to be a part of this activity because I feel like I'm part of their little family.

I also noticed Jarred, one of the students, brought burgers for the whole class. I really admired his kindness and effort. At his young age, you can see the concern for his classmates. It is something I will never forget.

What I Learned From Children

I can say that my experience at this party was more than fun. I learned from the children.

1. Being happy even in simple things. Their enjoyment of simple games and sports is a reminder that everything doesn't have to be fancy to feel happiness.
2. Respect and being welcoming. Even though they were not with me often, they showed me respect and acceptance that made me feel like I belonged.
3. The importance of community. Their closeness to each other and their care for new people is something I admire.

Ultimately, this Christmas party is not all about fun, gifts, and laughter. For me, it has been a reminder of how important it is to simply enjoy, accept, and care for each other. I also realized how important the role of teachers is in shaping children not only in their studies but also in their personality.

After all the fun, I went home with even greater gratitude for being a part of such an experience. Being in my mom's classroom gave me a deeper understanding of being a teacher and the fun world of elementary school.

That day was not just a Christmas party for me, it was an experience full of love, joy, and learning that I will carry with me on my path as a future teacher.