Early learning goals for toddlers include creative development. “The creative arts, including music, movement, dramatic play, puppetry, painting, sculpture, and drawing, are a crucial part of early childhood. Not only do the arts allow children to express themselves, but creative activity can enhance development of children’s skills in literacy, science, math, social studies, and more” according to “Spotlight on Young Children and the Creative Arts” by Derry Koralek [NAEYC, 2005]. Art, therefore, nurtures creativity.
Preschool teachers and daycare providers have the opportunity to promote creative development by providing art activities that explore media and materials and encourage imagination.
This snowflake craft is an excellent example of an activity that provides the opportunity to for expression, to encourage spontaneity in material usage, and to introduce children to textured materials. It is also a good way to discuss the aspects of winter.
This lesson plan includes a materials list, preparation instructions and procedures for this activity to make your childcare job easier. There are also age appropriate learning objectives and a sample of the simple supporting verbal cues necessary to encourage participation and support learning.
Snowflake Craft Materials List
For each child you will need:
4 large craft or Popsicle sticks
Blue paint
Gold paint
Paintbrush
Paper Plates
Glitter (in a shaker)
Craft Glue
Newspaper
Activity Preparation:
Pour paints onto two separate paper plates.
Cover the table with butcher paper
Put all materials on the craft table
Procedures for Snowflake Activity
- Encourage the children to paint their craft sticks with blue paint.
- Help children Sprinkle glitter on the craft sticks before they dry.
- Allow to dry
- Help children glue to stick them together in the shape of a snowflake.
- Allow to dry completely.
Snowflake Lesson Objectives
Objective 1
To provide the opportunity for expressive activities by encouraging the children to create a snowflake out of craft materials.
Verbal Cue A: Today we are going to make snowflakes out of popsicle sticks!
Verbal Cue B: Would you like to design a snowflake?
Objective 2
To encourage spontaneity in material usage by allowing the children to choose colors and decorate items.
Verbal Cue A: What paint color would you like to use: blue or gold?
Verbal Cue B: Would you like to add glitter to your snowflake?
Objective 3
To promote the sharing of art materials to foster social interaction and cooperation.
Verbal Cue A: Let’s take turns using the paint
Verbal Cue B: Will you let Maria use the glitter?
Kids will have great fun in your childcare center while learning about winter.
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