school teacher turned kid...

Ever since I can remember, my family never really had traditions that have stuck every year during the holidays.  I am envious of everyone that does have traditions and am now trying to create my own...I started them in the classroom...
I am an elementary teacher and have a great love for children's literature and absolutely love "The Polar Express."  Each year, I have made it a tradition in my classroom to turn that last day before winter break into a memorable experience for all my students.  I keep it a secret until the day of the event (while letting the parents know in advance for their permission and so on about the "special" day and to keep it Top Secret!).  Upon entering the classroom, I play the soundtrack from THP and have already transformed the classroom to have a large open space where students can lay down with their pals... all in a "train" made from the help of black butcher paper etc. and their desks as a guide.  I use different quotes from the movie on the train as well and the students are speechless.  I purchased enough copies for each student to have a book and follow along.  The students each take turns reading a section/page of the book and when we finish the story...
I serve hot chocolate with mini marshmallows and a mini candy cane for that extra touch.  I have homemade mini cookies for them too but are packaged in their own baggies.  The students come dressed in their pjs and are allowed to bring a stuffed animal and a pillow or blanket.  Every year, somehow... (gee, i wonder how? =) moms talk... a lot!) the students know that there is a "special" day but don't know what to expect... even the parents can't believe that the classroom had transformed into a train.  When I see their faces as they walk through the door that morning, it always reminds me why I am there... to provide the very best for my students!!!
Happy "Holly" Days everyone!!!