Spring Sun Catchers are a preschool-friendly craft and a great way to get everyone outside to enjoy the warm weather. They combine nature and art in a way that encourages enviromental appreciation and creativity. They also allow parent’s to embrace children’s uncanny ability to pick up and keep all the random sticks, leaves, and flowers they can find.
Supplies:
- A Collection of leaves/flowers/small sticks from outside*
- Contact paper
- Paper plates
- Ribbon or string
*I should clarify that we only used items that had already fallen off of their plants since we live in a downtown area and wanted everyone to be able to enjoy the blooms.
Instructions:
1. Collect Your Medium: With baskets in hand, go on a nature walk. Look for small leaves, flowers, and sticks to fill up your basket. The more colors, the better. Take time to breathe in the fresh air and don’t forget to stop and smell the flowers.
2. Create Your Masterpiece: Return home and lay your treasures out on the table. Create a frame in your paper plate by cutting out a circle in the center. Cut out a piece of contact paper the same size as the paper plate. Peel the backing off of the of the contact paper and lay it down, sticky side up. Create your spring collage inside the frame by sticking your leaves onto the contact paper. Optional: Once your design is complete, you can add a second piece of contact paper to the other side of the collage (sticky side down) to keep your items in place.
4. Display Your Art: Loop a small piece of ribbon or string to the back for hanging. Place in a sunny window for everyone to enjoy.
Although this project was easy enough for toddlers, I believe it can be fun for any age, including moms. The older the participant, the more intricate their design can be. I even made my own after seeing how much fun my kids were having.
What are you doing to take advantage of the wonderful Connecticut spring?
