All Aboard!

This holiday season treat your kids to a program that is trainloads of fun. Join Conductor Steve as he takes your kids on a magical train ride around the world to learn about winter festivals.

This program takes an entertaining look at a variety of winter festivals and holidays from around the world.

Sensitive to the diversity within our culture, Steve combines a unique blend of “education and entertainment” to creatively teach your young readers about holidays like: Diwali, Kwanzaa, Solstice, Lunar New Year, Ramadan, Hanukkah, and of course, Christmas.

“Excellent program! Educational, stimulating and fun!”

--John Howe, Principal - Starkweather Elementary School

Using books from the Arctic Express Reading List, Steve introduces students to a number of the most popular winter celebrations from around the world. Emphasis is placed on how these festivals share common themes, while providing distinct cultural perspectives.

The winter season (November thru January) is a great time to have students share their family background with others.  Arctic Express provides an entertaining platform to discuss cultures from around the world, while encouraging respect for the traditions and heritage of others.

Throughout the 45-50 minute presentation Steve identifies and defines important words and concepts from the Arctic Express! selected Vocabulary List.

“The Arctic Express program is one of a kind!  It informs, captivates, and engages the audience.  It stretches the imagination especially as this magical time of year!”

--Kathy Reynolds, Teacher - Sheffey Elementary School

The words are presented in context and then defined, which helps in creating a meaningful reason for the children to assimilate the information. Teachers may find it useful to include some of these words as bonus vocabulary words, spelling words or simply weave them into other lesson plans.

"He took us on a magical journey filled with laughter and learning.”

--William Samuel Bartlett, CEO - Family Friendly Schools

Based on the statewide learning objectives for cultures and diversity, students also learn the importance of respect, the power of giving and the magic of sharing. In particular, the students will interact with Steve and be challenged to:

• Value the similarities and differences in various winter celebrations

• Recognize cultural expression through celebrations and rituals

• Explain different celebrated holidays and cultural traditions

• Be tolerant of the differences of others

• Treat others with respect

• Consider ways to give or share with those less fortunate
   

Benefits of the Arctic Express! production:

• supports statewide learning objectives in cultures and diversity

• motivates children to read books

• integrates diverse cultures and reading with daily life

• increases circulation of library books