Hello! 

It’s February already and it is still cold. It feels like the cold will be holding on for a little while longer. Nara has gotten more snow than usual this year so I am very happy. Unfortunately not everyone shares my happiness.

Today, I just want to talk a little about my experience growing up in the 80s and how we celebrated Valentine’s Day at elementary school. I am sure that most of this has changed by now but sometimes I like to look back and remember my school days. 

In the 1980s, Valentine's Day in elementary schools was a time for children to exchange cards and small gifts with their classmates. It was common for children to decorate shoeboxes or paper bags to collect their valentines. We used them like a mailbox. We attached them to our desks. Teachers often encouraged students to make their own cards, using construction paper, doilies, and stickers to decorate them. Some kids would buy pre-made cards, but many would create their own unique designs to give to their friends.

Back then, it was also common for classrooms to host parties with sweets, such as cookies or cupcakes. Teachers would sometimes organize games and activities related to the holiday, such as passing a heart around the room while music played, or playing bingo with heart-shaped cards. Children would also wear red and pink clothing to school on Valentine's Day to be extra festive.

Overall, Valentine's Day was a simple and more innocent celebration in elementary schools during the 1980s. It was a time for kids to express their friendship and appreciation for each other, and to enjoy some special treats and activities together.

Is Valentine’s Day celebrated in Japanese elementary schools?

Make sure to wish your loved ones a Happy Valentine’s Day and enjoy some chocolates with them.

See you next month!