Teaching About Boxing Day in Your ESL Classroom

Boxing Day is celebrated on December 26th, primarily in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and some other Commonwealth countries. Its origins can be traced back to Britain, where it has been observed for centuries. There are several theories about the origin of Boxing Day, but it's generally associated with charitable giving and acts of kindness.

The name "Boxing Day" itself has several suggested origins. One theory is that it comes from the tradition of employers giving their servants gifts or 'Christmas boxes' on this day as a form of appreciation for their service throughout the year. Another theory links it to churches opening their alms boxes (collection boxes for the poor) and distributing the contents to those in need on the day after Christmas.

Boxing Day traditionally marks the end of the Christmas season. On Boxing day, people are encouraged to give presents to family, friends, or charities. Let's explore some creative ideas of how the classroom can celebrate the Boxing Day tradition.

There are many ideas for celebrating boxing day in the classroom. You could have students make boxes for each other. You could make a list of things to put in each box, like candy, a funny card, stickers, etc. Another idea is to have students make Boxing Day cards. Get everyone together on Boxing Day morning and exchange presents. Draw a gingerbread man on the board with the whiteboard marker. Have students make him their partner by walking around the room. When they find their own matching gingerbread man, they sit next to that person for 20 seconds. Ask students to share what they are thankful for this Christmas season.

More ideas to celebrate Boxing Day in the classroom:

• Explain that in some countries, Boxing Day is a time for giving to people in need. Ask students to name some ways they can help needy people.
• Provide a brief history of Boxing Day, its origin in the UK, and how it has evolved over time. Discuss its significance and changes in modern times.
• Tell them the story of Boxing Day
• Talk to them about the day and how it got its name
• Explain that it's a day of good will and when people give gifts to others
• Make a Christmas dinner
• Watch a Christmas film
• Encourage a discussion on the importance of charity, giving, and kindness, linking it to the spirit of Boxing Day.
• Make a boxing craft in the classroom
• If possible, play traditional or modern songs related to Boxing Day. Discuss lyrics and their significance.
• Make a Christmas card
• Explore the historical context of Boxing Day and its ties to the past social structures.
• Collect canned goods and/or clothing to give to those in need
• Show a video about Boxing Day
• Make a Christmas cake
• Assign students to research and present on how Boxing Day is celebrated in different countries. Encourage them to find similarities and differences.
• Divide students into groups and have them role-play scenarios where they exchange gifts or participate in charitable acts typical of Boxing Day.
• Show videos or images depicting how Boxing Day is celebrated around the world. This visual aid can facilitate discussion and comprehension.

As you can see, there are plenty of ideas for celebrating boxing day in the classroom that are fun and interesting for the children. I hope this list has been beneficial to you, helping you to bring cheer to little ones on their big day!