When I began to disassemble the tree at the beginning of December, my 4 year old said, "Oh, don't take down the tree Mommy. Let's do another one!" So, we decided on the theme of giving and called it our "Giving Tree." I cut mittens out of construction paper for this tree. We discussed all the ways we could be giving, generous, kind, or in some way offer a helping hand to others. We came up with such things as "donating food to the local food pantry" and "giving more hugs" and "being a better listener". In addition, this tree was the catalyst for us taking action and doing what we had discussed, like actually donating food.
When January rolled around and we had reflected on our Giving Tree, once again my girls said, "Let's do another one!" In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, we created the "Changing Tree." Since Dr. King was inspired by Ghandi who said, "Be the change you want to see in the world," we decided our focus would be positive changes we'd like to make for our world / home / selves. My daughters wanted hearts again for this tree, so I cut out a bunch of construction paper hearts and we got right to work on letting our tree of change bloom. We came up with a variety of things that, once again, lead to great family discussions and lessons. For example, my oldest daughter came up with "doing things the first time I'm asked" and my youngest was proud of "no more yelling." 
We were all held accountable; if my youngest yelled, she was gently reminded that she had put "no more yelling" on the Changing Tree. If I was running late getting my oldest to preschool, she reminded me "Mommy, you put "be on time" on the changing tree.
In addition, several learning opportunities flourished from this exercise. For example, my oldest daughter checked 4 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. books out of the library. She wanted to learn all about the person after whom a holiday had been named and influenced the creation of our tree.
Because we liked to hang 1 "change" per family member a day on the tree, we created a banner to hang by the tree to act as a constant reminder of our goal. It said, "Be The Change."
For February, we're doing a "Love Tree." On our hearts, we're writing all the ways we can show / feel love as well as listing all the people / activities / things we love. We're currently working on a banner that says, "Be Love."
For March, we're thinking about a "Spring Tree" and hanging on the tree all the signs of Spring. The possibilities are endless...you could do a tree once a month, once a season, once a year. Try a sports tree, song tree, birthday tree. No matter what you choose, there will no doubt be room for learning by all family members involved. Enjoy watching your family grow!
Below, check out some book titles that correspond to the trees mentioned above.
Thankful Tree Books
Let's Be Thankful, by P.K. Hallinan
This book reinforces the concept of gratitude by acknowledging people/activities that bring joy to a child's life.
Give Thanks for Each Day, by Steve Metzger
Delightful illustrations of happy animals and rhyming verse help children remember to give thanks for life's simple pleasures.
Giving Thanks, by Jonathan London
In this story, a young boy learns to show his gratitude for nature when on a walk with his father.
Giving Tree Books
Just Critters Who Care, by Mercer Mayer
Follow "Little Critter" as he and his friends rally together and volunteer to help a neighbor in need.
Rabbit's Gift, by George Shannon
Based on a folktale that's been shared for centuries among many cultures, this book illustrates the reward of generosity.
Changing Tree Books
On My Way To A Happy Life, by Deepak Chopra with Kristina Tracy
Use the ideas found inside this book to help teach your child lessons that will help him/her on his/her way to a happy and successful life.
Incredible You! 10 Ways to let your Greatness Shine through, by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer with Kristina Tracy
This book lets children know that they're unique and powerful beings, and that they have everything they need within themselves to create happy, successful lives.
Note: If creating a Changing Tree, don't forget to check out the biography section at your child's local library to find a selection of books about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. or Ghandi.
Love Tree Books
A Sick Day for Amos McGee, by Philip C. Stead
This is a story of friendship and dedication as told through an experience of zookeeper "Amos McGee."
Love is a Handful of Honey, by Giles Andreae
A little bear finds his world a secure and happy place as he realizes love is everywhere.
Care Bears All for You!, Frances Ann Ladd
Two bears brighten their friends' day as they find out what makes each friend smile.
Winnie the Pooh's Valentine, by Bruce Talkington
The charming characters of the Hundred-Acre Wood learn there are many ways to say "I love you" on Valentine's Day.
Spring Tree Books
Are You Spring? by Caroline Pitcher
This story follows a young bear on her search for spring. In addition, it offers many child friendly activities that celebrate spring.
Springtime on the Farm, by Kristine Lombardi
"Bunny" and "Duckling" journey around a farm discovering the wonders of spring.
