Chinese New Year

Snake made of yellow lanterns which
runs the length of China Town in Singapore

Chinese New Year is a special time for Children in China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and around the world!  It's all about welcoming in the Chinese Luna New Year, pineapple tarts, red packets, firecrackers, mandarins and FOOD.   This year we welcome the year of the snake.

The Chinese Zodiac is a source of interest for adults and kids alike.  I have several non-Chinese friends who live and breathe their Chinese Zodiac, and for my Chinese friends although less relevant to them than perhaps the previous generation, the Zodiac is still referenced for big decisions (wedding dates is an obvious example).

Miss May is not to interested in the Zodiac but older kids love the process of discovering their animal and the personality traits that supposedly come with bring a particular animal.

There are some great reference sights where you can look up your Chinese Zodiac animal and read about... yourself (?) ... your older kids will love this too!

http://www.china-family-adventure.com/chinese-zodiac.html

http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/kids/stories/peopleplaces/chinese-horoscopes/

Given it is the year of the snake we kicked off our playdate with friends last week by making toilet paper roll SNAKES... the kids decorated and adults did the cutting!  It is pretty straightforward but if you want some instructions checkout... La Jolla Mom

If you are expecting a new baby this year then keep in mind your little one will be a SNAKE... according to the Travel China Guide.... "gracious morality and great wisdom. They are usually financially secure and do not have to worry about money. They have tremendous sympathy for others and would like to take actions to help their fellow human beings. They are determined to accomplished their goals and hate to fail. Although they look calm on the surface, they are intense and passionate. They have a rich source of inspiration and understand themselves well. They are people of great perception. Women under the sign of the snake do well in housework but are irritable." (does this mean that men do not do well but are laid-back ... I wonder!)

All good fun!