One of the highlights of Global Classrooms is a simple craft project that creates a meaningful connection between students on opposite sides of the world.
Before each Ethiopia team trip, American students at a selected elementary school sort and organize colorful paper pieces that will become paper bag puppets. We photograph and film them(only with permission) as they prepare the craft materials, then personally deliver those supplies to children in Ethiopia.
When we arrive, we show the Ethiopian students photos and videos of the American children who helped prepare the project. Together, they assemble the puppets, laugh, create, and enjoy being kids.
After returning home, we visit the American classrooms once again to share photos and videos of their Ethiopian peers completing the very craft they helped make possible. Watching students light up as they recognize children 9,000 miles away enjoying something they helped create is a powerful reminder that even the simplest acts can build genuine connection across cultures.
It's more than a craft—it's an opportunity for children to discover that friendship, kindness, and joy can transcend language, culture, and distance.
This is one of the greatest joys for us here at Arukah Global!
