April - Hanami

Hanami - which means "flower viewing" in Japanese, is the traditional custom of viewing the cherry blossom trees throughout April. This year, we have fully embraced the customs and festivities for the first time here at Sandy Lane Nursery and Forest School as an inclusive activity (despite covid 19) between all rooms! 

The children have had the opportunity to engage in a range of Japanese inspired activities whilst learning about Japan as a country and their traditions during this special time. 

We have created pink popcorn artwork, listened to a traditional Japanese orchestra, made our very own craft blossoms to hang from the ceilings in nursery and some children also participated in games of "Suikawari" which means watermelon smashing!!

The culmination of our Hanami was a traditional Japanese picnic outdoors between our Covid bubbles. The children were supprted to try lots of different foods that are eaten in Japan whilst people appreciate Hanami including; vegetable sushi, fresh watermelon, Japanese rice crackers, cucumbers and vegetable Gyozas which are dumplings. It was a magical experience for all our children to be able to come together this way, embracing one another and being supported to try new experiences. We are already looking forward to the celebrations next year...minus the bubbles!