Plan based on an activity submitted by Cathy McLallen from Sandcastles Family Development Center, Sebastopol, CA
A leaf print activity can become a rich MATH experience just by inviting children to sort, classify, and pattern the leaves as they work.
- 1-2 yards of plain or solid light colored muslin or cotton cloth
- 2-3 pkgs. of iron-on hem tape
- Foohy® Gel Markers
- Colorful paints (tempera or washable fabric paints) in cups
- Paint brushes and smocks
- White rolled paper to cover table
- A collection of leaves
- Sorting and classifying leaves
- Patterning
- Color matching and mixing
- Fine-motor coordination
- Cover the art table with white paper and tape cloth onto the table.
- Bring out the collection of leaves for children to examine. Invite them to notice how the leaves are similar or different. Ask children to sort and classify similar leaves into piles. Talk about which piles have the most or least and how the leaves are similar.
- Show children how to brush paints on the veined sides (back) of the leaves and gently press them onto the cloth.
- Children can create a repeating mathematical pattern with the leaves by alternating two different leaves and colors in a row across the fabric.
- Provide Foohy® Gel Markers for children to add their names and decorations to the banner.
- When the cloth is dry, the teacher can iron on the hem tape around the edges to create a frame for the banner.
- Use the banner as a welcome sign on your door or as a window covering, or hang it from the ceiling or wall to absorb sound and decorate your room.
- Makes a great tablecloth for your book area too.
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