Moms this week my blog is centered on a craft project that hopefully will keep those creative juices flowing in you and your child/children and continue making memories. Remember to always take time out during these creative adventures to keep lines of communication open with your child/children by asking for their input on what they would enjoy doing most or a place they might enjoy visiting. These ideas will help spur your imagination to expand their learning experiences.

Project 2: Homemade Finger Paint

Supplies:
2 cups Flour
2 tsps. Salt
2 1/2 cups Cold Water
2 cups Boiling Water
Food Coloring
Bowl
Spoon
Paper

Preparation:
Spread out newspapers, an old plastic tablecloth, or an old shower curtain to protect the table and floor from spills and drips.

Provide old clothes or smocks to protect clothing. An old shirt worn backwards is perfect.
A sink nearby and plenty of paper towels for quick cleanup is vital.

Get Started:
1.  In a bowl, mix 2 cups flour with 2 teaspoons salt.
2. Add 2 1/2 cups cold water.
3. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add this mixture to 2 cups boiling water.
5. Boil until smooth and thick.
6. Add food coloring, then stir until smooth.
7. Allow to cool completely before your child uses the finger paint.

Just an idea, wouldn’t it be fabulous after the pictures dry to mount the pictures and host an art show for DAD when he gets home from work.

Remember: Without a mess you have no project!

HAVE FUN AND MAKE MEMORIES!

Sherry

You are your child’s role model! Have you ever heard that before? Often, it’s the television or music artist that influence your child’s upbringing. As a new mother many years ago, I sought out a venue to help my children grow and involve them in new and stimulating activities that would make warm memories that they would always treasure. Now Dads aren’t left out of this ADVENTURE, however; it usually is the mother that plans and implements ideas. JUST DAD TIME activities will give Mom a break and your child will love having him all to themselves. I plan to make this a weekly series of ways to make warm memories that you and your child/children will always treasure. As a first grade teacher, I am concerned about a child’s social, emotional, physical, and mental development while they are in my care as you are with your own child/children. I have found that allowing my students opportunities for creative expression is an integral part of the whole educational process and vital for their well-being. During this year, I will offer you suggestions for stimulating experiences with your child for creative expression and memorable adventures.

Project 1: Homemade Sticker Glue

Supplies:
Elmer’s Glue
White Vinegar
Bowl
Spoon
Small Paint Brush
Paper
Crayons
Scissors
Wax Paper or Foil

Preparation:

Spread out newspapers, an old plastic tablecloth, or an old shower curtain to protect the table and floor from spills and drips.

Provide old clothes or smocks to protect clothing. An old shirt worn backwards is perfect.
A sink nearby and plenty of paper towels for quick cleanup is vital.

Get Started:

1.  Draw a small design on paper with crayons or use pictures from magazines.
2. Cut out the drawing to apply the sticker glue.
3. In a small bowl mix 2 parts Elmer’s Glue and 1 part white vinegar (ex. 2 cups glue and 1 cup vinegar) Hint: You can keep this to use over and over again if you put it in a container to keep. Just stir it up and use again.
4. Use a small paint brush and coat the back of the small drawings well. Allow the sticker glue sticky side up to dry completely before your child/children lick the back to apply the sticker to personalize cards or wrapping paper.

Variation: Instead of glue and vinegar, use 1/2 cup warm water and 1 packet of unflavored gelatin and stir until dissolved. Apply to back of drawings or cut outs and allow to dry before licking. SAFE and TASTELESS!

Remember: Without a mess you have no project!

HAVE FUN AND MAKE MEMORIES!

Sherry