A Fallish Craft to do with the Kids

I can't take full credit for this project, I found something like it while researching an article for fall decorations. But I adapted it and made it work with the supplies we had on hand and realized it was really a great project to do with kids because there's a job everyone can handle -- big or little. The whole family could make it together and enjoy the chance to bond as they discuss a few of the things they’re thankful for. 

My favorite thankful thing came from our granddaugther. She was thankful that "the monsters under the bed didn't color her fingers while she was sleeping." Aren't we all!

Because they are so inexpensive to make these weaths are also a good project for the class room, a day care, scout troop or other organizations that involve young children.

If you make one, send me a photo and I'll post it with your grandkid's names!

Supplies for 1 Wreath:

     1 paper plate

        6 sheets of paper -- plain white or recycled from other projects

     Crayons and colored pencils in fall hues

     Children’s safety scissors

     Glue stick

Start the youngest children on covering a sheet of paper with fall color. Any combination of crayons and pencils can be used, and in fact the end result is best if several colors are used. Cover the paper with an even layer of color. If recycling paper from other projects use the backside or color over any designs that already exist.

An adult or older child can trace three of four leaf designs onto one of the blank pieces of paper. Make a variety of shapes such as a maple leaf, oak leaf and basic oval leaf.  Each leaf should be approximately 3 to 4 inches long and 2 to 3 inches wide. Cut them out to use as templates.

Instruct an older child to trace the leaf designs onto the back of a colored piece of paper. Give the job of cutting out the leaves to children between the ages of five and eight – it’s great practice for their scissor skills.

Ask older children to trace around the edge of the cut leaf with a dark brown of russet felt marker. Include center and lateral veins on approximately half of the leaves for extra detail.

Cut the center out of a paper plate. Use a bowl or saucer to draw an even circle. Leave 1 ½ to 3 inches around the edge of the plate. Color or paint the paper plate in dark brown or dark green to provide a neutral background for your leaves.

Glue the leaves with veins around the wreath shape in a random design. On the remaining leaves, ask each family member to name one or two things they’re grateful for, and write it on the leaf with a bold marker. Condense their sentiments into one or two words to make it easier to read. Attach the remaining leaves to the form.  Use a removable, adhesive-backed hook to display your wreath on any door.

To help preserve your wreath year after year, wrap it in acid-free tissue paper before storing.