It saddens me to hear that Kindergarten now lasts a full school day, instead of just a half as it was for me. That year holds some of my favorite childhood memories. Looking back, I feel as though we were spoiled, all of the fun activities we did. When learning about Picasso we taped paper to the underside of our desks and drew to our heart’s content, pillows fluffed underneath our heads. When learning about Thanksgiving we dressed up as pilgrims and Indians as we sat around eating feasts. We baked pancakes, made Rainbow fish, and played with shaving cream. But the best treatment was given during Christmas time.
The day started with a scavenger hunt. We raced through the halls and sidewalks as we combed the hallways for glittering candy canes. Our giggles probably disturbed the other students, but, filled with the Christmas spirit, we paid them no mind. At last we completed the hunt, our baskets heavy with sweets and prizes, and we trudged back to our t-building. But to our surprise, the classroom had been ransacked! Tables and chairs were flipped over and knocked sideways, papers strewn across the floor. Our pudgy hands dropped our baskets as our eyes bulged, taking in the sight.
With a small gasp and a smile, our teacher maneuvered through the destruction towards a glittering note taped to her desk. With a flourish of her hand, she began to read it aloud. Our ears were peeled, desperate to learn who could do such a thing! At last it was revealed: it was Santa’s elves! Apparently they were feeling rather mischievous that day, and decided to have a little fun at our school. We believed every word of it.
Now everyday was not as elaborate, and the ones I remember clearly are few; but there’s always those handful that make an impact on you somehow and remain with you forever.