A World War II Christmas: Learning to Make Do

****I do not cancel classes for low enrollment. I love teaching to a single learner or group of students.****

Students will learn about scarcity and rationing during World War II and how it affected Christmas traditions for families in both the US and the UK. Through a slide presentation, we will examine why certain items were in short supply, how governments imposed rationing restrictions, and how creativity and ingenuity brought about ways to "make do". We will focus on holiday foods, decorations, and gifts, noting why many items were in short supply, and then we will explore clever substitutions made for holiday favorites. We will discuss ways to make, repair, repurpose, and upcycle household items to create gifts and decorations. We will look at unusual recipes of the time period and learners will have the opportunity to plan a "make do" holiday meal. All students will be encouraged to share their thoughts and ideas throughout the class. At the end of class, students will receive a pattern so they can create a "make do" Christmas decoration, and recipes for  "make do" desserts. There is no special experience or knowledge required for this class.