By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–With Christmas break a mere two days away, Helena Elementary School first graders were already in the Christmas spirit on Wednesday, Dec. 13, as each classroom celebrated with holiday parties in a variety of ways.

Parents visited the school on Dec. 13, to assist with Christmas arts and crafts, enjoy refreshments and play games with their children. Years from now, parents will be able to look back and remember the unique ornaments they helped create with their child.

Students in Toni Redding’s first grade class had fun playing pin the carrot on Frosty, made reindeer ears and ornaments and showed off their Christmas drawings.

Helena Elementary School first grader Abigail Johnson said she liked reading and was busy creating her reindeer headband and reindeer juice box craft to take home.

Just down the hall, first graders in Megan Handley’s class were busy decorating holiday cookies, making reindeer food, constructing candy cane ornaments, stuffing stockings and playing bingo while listening to Christmas music.

Handley said the fun day was made possible because of the help from parents.

“The room moms were definitely helpful in coordinating stations and getting the supplies,” Handley said.

Shelby County Schools dismissed for the Christmas holidays on Friday, Dec. 15 and will return on Jan. 3, 2018.