On the last day of Ramadan, kindergarteners at Oak View Elementary School learned about Somali traditions and culture during a visit from Fartun Nur, an author and parent of a kindergartener at Oak View.
Nur is the author of the children’s book “The Many Colors of My Hijab.” The book is about a young girl named Hasna who starts her first day of school and wants to make a good impression and express her individuality by matching her hijabs with her outfits. Hasna wears a different hijab each day of the week and her classmates are impressed by her creativity and style. Hasna teaches her classmates that wearing a hijab is not just about covering up but it is a way to express oneself and showcase their unique beauty.
“The opportunity to learn from our families about their stories is impactful for all students,” said Lance Fredrickson, kindergarten teacher at Oak View. “The sharings are meaningful because it is part of who they are. When we take the time to look at the beauty and culture around us, there is so much to learn and grow from.”
In addition to reading her book out loud for scholars, Nur brought along some of her family members to help teach the kindergarteners about Ramadan, traditional Somali cultural clothing and celebrations.