As families settle into a new year, many take a moment to reflect on the season that just passed—what it taught us, how it brought us together, and the values it highlighted. At Far Hills Country Day School (Far Hills), those lessons aren’t confined to a single month. Instead, they become part of the school’s year-round approach to educating the whole child, emphasizing well-being, cultural appreciation and community connection.
An Inclusive Approach to Seasonal Learning
Far Hills capitalizes on the holiday season to continue emphasizing community and encouraging curiosity. Classrooms and gathering spaces feature symbols of Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, helping students understand and appreciate a wide range of cultural traditions. Families often visit classrooms to share their own customs—from storytelling to hands-on activities—giving students authentic, memorable experiences rooted in diversity.
This intentional approach fosters a sense of belonging. “At Far Hills, the holiday season brings our Five Pillars—Kindness, Honesty, Respect, Leadership and Responsibility—to life in the most meaningful ways,” says Georgia Zaiser, head of school. “Whether it’s our preschoolers discovering new traditions, our older students leading acts of service, or families joining together in shared celebration, every member of our community plays a part.”
Traditions That Strengthen Well-Being
Far Hills hosts several signature traditions that bring students and families together, creating a joyful environment that supports emotional wellness.
Schoolwide Holiday Concerts:
All students participate in these musical celebrations. In addition to the K–8 concert, the Preschool presents its own performance, ensuring that our youngest learners feel comfortable and supported—while still experiencing the joy of singing, using props, and celebrating the season. Their concert also introduces a variety of holiday traditions, offering early exposure to diverse celebrations. The K–8 concert includes a cherished moment when alumni return to join in singing “Christmas Is a Feeling,” symbolizing connection across generations.
Door Decorating Contest:
Students in Grades 5–8 engage in a collaborative competition that encourages creativity, teamwork, and school spirit.
Kindergarten Gingerbread Event:
This hands-on tradition blends academic learning with joyful creativity. Students read and compare multiple Gingerbread Man stories, study different community settings, write descriptive narratives, and share them during Community Meeting. Families join them to decorate gingerbread character cookies—a highlight of the year that reinforces collaboration and confidence.
Giving Back as a Form of Wellness
Acts of service are central to the school's holiday philosophy. Giving trees placed at school entrances invite families to donate gifts to children through the Holiday Hope program. Upper School students write letters to individuals who may be spending the season alone, offering encouragement and human connection.
These traditions nurture empathy, social awareness, and emotional resilience—key components of a child's well-being.
A Community Rooted in Cultural Appreciation
Teachers integrate stories, music, and lessons that highlight global traditions of light, celebration, and generosity. Spanish classes explore las posadas and practice seasonal carols in Spanish, encouraging both cultural and linguistic understanding.
Families continue these conversations at home, supporting the school’s commitment to raising culturally aware, compassionate learners.
Building a Foundation That Carries Into the New Year
What makes Far Hills distinct is the way these celebrations reflect its core values. Whether through service, shared traditions, or hands-on learning, every activity is grounded in the school's Five Pillars: Respect, Responsibility, Leadership, Kindness, and Honesty.
Though the holiday season has passed, its lessons remain. Students return in January not just refreshed, but enriched—carrying forward meaningful experiences that strengthen their sense of community, deepen their emotional intelligence, and support their year-round growth.
At Far Hills, the holidays are more than a moment. They are a catalyst for connection, learning, and well-being that lasts long into the new year.
For more information, visit fhcds.org.