hailand, known as “the land of smiles,” has many beautiful traditions that go back hundreds of years and make Thailand what we know it to be. Arguably the most beautiful, and to us the most relevant of Thai traditions is the ceremony call “Wai Kru.” This celebration permeates the entire Thai society, from large corporations, Muay Thai (Thai boxing), and in every school in the country, to name just three. This workshop looks at the history of this ceremony focusing on the Wai Kru ceremony accompanying the annual “Teacher Appreciation Day”held evey year at the beginning of the school term.
Our Wai Kru (literally “Respect Teacher”) workshop looks at the element of “respect” in Thai culture and suggests ways in which to bring it to Vermont schools. Respect and personal responsibility are always on the front burner in our schools. Look at how Thais incorporate this concept into their institutions and everyday life and then bring it home to your classroom.
The workshop concludes with participants making what is known as a paan Wai Kru, a beautiful lotus shaped centerpiece used in the ceremony.