December 12, 2016
Dear Families,
We are ready to celebrate the holiday season by doing “The Ugly Gift Exchange!” This is a great lesson for gift-giving time because it reminds students to be grateful no matter how “ugly” a gift may seem. If you are able, please send in an “ugly” gift for a classmate. The gift should be inexpensive or cost nothing at all. It can be something found at home, at a Dollar Store or thrift store, or something you already have that is perfect for re-gifting. It can also be something that is made by your child. Ideas from previous exchanges are: one sock, a potato, a broken crayon, a used candle, salt and pepper shakers shaped like feet, and a homemade robot. The gift should be wrapped with a gift tag labeled with your child’s name.
On gift exchange day, each student will receive a gift. Once opened, each child must spontaneously and kindly respond with two compliments and two uses for the gift. For example:
“Thank you so much for the old potato! It feels so soft and leathery. I also love its fresh, natural smell. I could use it as a football when we don’t have any balls to use at recess. I could also use it as a snack when my mom forgets to pack me one.”
Each gift giver will also receive a special thank you note written by the gift recipient. Please send in the wrapped “ugly” gift no later than Monday, December 19, 2016.
As always, please let us know if you have any questions. Thank you for your help with this special project!
Happy Holidays,
The Third Grade Teachers