Preschoolers celebrate Grandparents Day at Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines
A nostalgic celebration brought children and grandparents together through dance, greetings, and bracelet-making, strengthening family bonds.
By Thania Florendo
“To respect and care for the elderly of the world as if they were our own parents is the true practice of great filial piety and boundless love,” says Master Cheng Yen in a Jing Si Aphorism.
A day of dancing, laughter, and handmade gifts brought generations together as the young learners of Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines honored their grandparents during Grandparents Day on September 25 at Tzu Chi’s branch in Agno, Quezon City.
Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines Directress Jane Sy welcomed the families and highlighted the lasting influence grandparents have on their grandchildren.
“Grandparents play an important role in our grandchildren’s lives through their stories and unconditional love. They learn real and valuable lessons from their grandparents,” Sy shared.
The children brought their grandparents back to the nostalgic feeling of childhood and a glimpse of their joyful and youthful days. Through dance performances, video greetings, and bracelet-making, the children expressed their love and gratitude for the elders who have guided, cared for, and nurtured them.
Eighty-one-year-old Albino Kaw said he was happy to be at the event with his whole family. As a self-proclaimed favorite of his grandson, Odain, he shared that the boy will always have a soft spot in his heart, especially when he asks for toys.
“I teach him how to be a good boy, to be close with his cousins, parents, and grandparents,” he shared. He hopes his grandson will pursue his ideal career in the future and work with his grandfather.
Lisa Lee, grandmother of Deborah, shared that spending time with her granddaughter is her stress reliever. She truly enjoys being a grandmother, but she can get strict sometimes about teaching manners to discipline her.
“She’s just a bit naughty because she’s young, but she follows it,” Lee said.
The celebration ended with surprise gift sets of vegan mooncakes and fruits for the families, coinciding with the Mid-Autumn Festival, a time traditionally associated with family reunion, gratitude, and blessings.
