Chinese New Year Activities

Bring the magic of Chinese New Year into your classroom with this print-and-go resource packed with meaningful crafts, geography, storytelling, and hands-on activities!

Students will build cultural understanding as they explore traditions, learn about the Chinese Zodiac, and connect the celebration to real-world geography.

What’s included

• Chinese New Year decorations: step-by-step banner and lantern craft directions for a festive classroom display

• Geography connection: “Where is China?” mapping page (world & continent map) with questions and labeling practice

• Chinese Zodiac learning:
  • Zodiac legend connection (great paired with read-alouds)
  • Chinese Zodiac Fan craft (color & black-and-white options) for retelling the story
  • Chinese Zodiac Animal Props (color & black-and-white) for interactive storytelling

• Literacy & comprehension: activities inspired by The Runaway Wok by Ying Chang Compestine with three differentiated cause-and-effect worksheets (book not included | online read-aloud available)

• Culture & traditions:
  • Jiaozi (dumplings) sequencing activity (steps to make dumplings)
  • Venn diagram comparing students’ New Year traditions with Chinese New Year traditions

• Movement & fun: “Catch the Dragon’s Tail” traditional game directions (perfect for indoors with space – or outside!)

• Answer keys included for quick checking and easy prep

Perfect for whole-group lessons, literacy centers, social studies connections, or a special celebration week – this resource helps kids learn why traditions matter while keeping engagement high with crafts, games, and storytelling.

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Chinese new year information & activities