Xanh Tue Duc primary and secondary school in Hanoi's Thanh Oai District organized a special opening ceremony for the new school year, with multiple activities to practice gratitude.
At 2 p.m. Monday, 250 parents and hundreds of students participated in a foot-washing ceremony, where both parents and children would wash one another's feet.
Students bring with them bowls of water for the foot-washing ceremony.
"For children, gratitude often stops at words and thoughts. The school creates an opportunity for students to wash their parents' feet, so they could see the sacrifice their parents have made for them. This activity has created a bond between parents and children," said Pham Tuan Dat, school director.
Before the ceremony begins, students clap their hands in front of their parents and spend a minute in thoughts of gratitude.
Nguyen Thi Yen takes a photo of her son.
"These small activities would foster children's morals," she said.
Bui Van Anh (L) and his wife wash their daughter's, second grader Nguyen Thao Nhi, feet in return.
"This activity is meaningful and emotional, where parents learn about their children's love for them," said Van Anh.
A mother and child cry during the ceremony.
"This is a precious moment that I've missed. I am grateful to the school for giving us the opportunity to be closer to one another," said Kim Thu as she hugs her son.
Ninth graders participate in a tea ceremony. They would prepare tea and cakes and enjoy them with their parents and teachers.
Students greet their teacher before beginning a class on gratitude. They would continue with activities like singing, writing or growing plants.
