There is something magical about creating a keepsake with your own hands—especially during the holiday season. This week, with support from Mrs. Laura, in The Carver’s After the Bell program, elementary students stepped into that magic as they designed and decorated their own holiday ornaments under the joyful guidance of Monica Cervantes, one of Carver’s longtime program leaders who brings boundless creativity to every activity she leads.
What looked like a fun afternoon of glitter, paint, and tiny treasures was also a meaningful learning experience. As students chose colors, patterns, and materials, they practiced creativity, explored self-expression, and took pride in making something uniquely their own. Every careful brushstroke and glued-on detail helped strengthen their fine motor skills, building confidence through hands-on problem-solving.
But perhaps the best part came at the end—when each child held up their finished ornament and imagined where it would hang. For some, it will brighten the family Christmas tree. For others, it will become a cherished gift. And for all of them, it will serve as a small, handmade reminder of a happy moment spent learning, laughing, and creating together after school.
Monica and the entire After the Bell team design activities like this to help students build memories that last far beyond a single season. These ornaments may sparkle for the holidays, but the skills and joy behind them will carry our students into the new year and beyond.
