Kind & Courteous Fun in Family Groups

This week, Saklan students gathered in their Family Groups for a joyful, laughter-filled Thanksgiving-themed SEL activity focused on kindness, cooperation, and creativity. With two tasks to complete before the big group sharing time, each Family Group worked together to celebrate our November SEL theme: Kind & Courteous.

Creating a Rhyming Poem

The first task was a poetic one! Students were given six words—Kind, Courteous, Turkey, Stuffing, Grateful, and Saklan—and worked together to craft an eight-line, rhyming holiday poem.

Groups brainstormed opening lines, found creative rhyming pairs, and practiced reading their poems aloud. Once the writing was complete, the fun continued as students came up with movements, gestures, or a mini-skit to bring their words to life. Whether performed as a group or with one reader and several actors, each poem became a cheerful expression of teamwork and holiday spirit.

Newspaper Costume Creations

The second task invited students to transform one group member into a Thanksgiving-inspired character—using only newspaper and masking tape! Creativity soared as students twisted, folded, layered, and shaped newspaper into costumes representing:

• A turkey
• Corn
• A pile of leaves
• A scarecrow

With laughter and collaboration, each group designed a costume that matched their chosen character or food item, showcasing not only imagination but also teamwork and courtesy in action.

The Grand Reveal

All Family Groups gathered on the sports court for the culminating celebration. Costumed characters stayed hidden behind the art room while groups circled the court. One by one, each group introduced their character, who stepped forward for the big reveal. Afterward, students performed their holiday poem for teachers and peers—earning smiles, applause, and plenty of festive cheer.

This activity beautifully blended creativity, community, and our monthly SEL focus. Students practiced kindness, cooperation, and communication while having a whole lot of fun. A perfect kickoff to the season of gratitude!

#SaklanSEL