Chuseok Activity Ideas for 0-8years with NQF Links

The 28th-30th of September is Chuseok

Chuseok is a major Korean holiday that is not officially celebrated in Australia. However, due to multiculturalism and a growing Korean community in various parts of Australia, including larger cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, Chuseok celebrations do take place in certain areas. These are often organized by the Korean community and might include traditional Korean activities, foods, and cultural events.

Discussing Chuseok could involve: ☼Teaching children about the importance of family gatherings in Korean culture. ☼Introducing traditional foods like "Songpyeon" (rice cakes) and explaining why they are significant. ☼Crafts like making paper lanterns or fans that are often seen during Korean festivals. ☼Reading books or showing videos that explain the holiday in an age-appropriate way. ☼Celebrating diverse cultural holidays can enrich the learning environment and foster an inclusive community.

What is Chuseok? "Chuseok is a special time in Korea when families come together to thank the earth for its plentiful harvest. They share delicious food like moon-shaped rice cakes and remember their ancestors, all to celebrate nature's gifts and family love."

Birth-2 Years (EYLF)

Moon Rice Cake Sensory Bin

Materials: Plastic bin, cooked rice, silicone moon-shaped moulds, spoons Instructions: Create 'moon cakes' with silicone moulds and hide them in a bin filled with rice. Challenge kids to dig and discover the 'moon cakes'. Learning Outcome: EYLF Outcome 2.1 – Children develop a sense of belonging to groups and communities.