We spent some time at Maplecrest Elementary this week, and honestly, it was one of those stops that reminds you why the holidays feel different when kids are involved.
Inside Mrs. Mitschele's 2nd grade classroom, the students were full of ideas about what Santa and his elves are up to right now. According to them, the workshop is busy. Toys are being made, reindeer are being built big, not small, and everyone is working hard to get things ready. You could hear the excitement in their voices as they talked it through!
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When we asked what grown-ups might want for Christmas, the answers were both funny and surprisingly thoughtful. Things like baking supplies, money for bills, hair accessories, and yes, even Dr Pepper. But mixed in with the laughs were answers about bringing joy, giving books, and happiness for others. Kids have a way of cutting straight to what matters.
The best part came when we talked about kindness. The students shared ideas like picking up someone’s yard, helping Santa if he was sick, feeding the reindeer, spreading love, helping Mrs. Claus take care of the animals, and even giving monkeys at the zoo Santa hats. Simple ideas, big hearts.
Before we left, the class shared their holiday wishes, and it felt genuine. No scripts. No filters. Just kids being kids and reminding all of us that the holiday season isn’t about getting everything right, it’s about caring for the people around you.
That’s the kind of Christmas spirit you don’t forget.
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