The fourth is just around the bend and everyone is getting their patriotism on, including our little ones 🙂 It’s important and fun to include our children in not only participating in the festivities, but also help plan them. Think about how much they can learn about this great country and the reason we celebrate on the fourth of July. I know that in preparation for the holiday you are more than likely trying to plan a menu, get the house sorted and organize activities rather than break into craft mode, but when my daughter came home from summer camp with this little number I just had to share it. She loved it so much that we made one at home, and let me tell you – it doesn’t take long and will serve as a sweet little memento and memory for you and your children. So worth it 😉
What you need:
– White paper
– Washable paint in red and blue (preferably finger paint)
– Star stickers (I’d recommend in either silver or gold, but it’s totally up to your creative genius)
– A medium sized paint brush
Step One:
Lay the blank paper vertically in front of your child. Allow your child to choose a paint color for the flagpole. Dip the brush and have them paint one vertical line on the paper (assist young children with this task).
Step Two:
Next, paint the palm of your child’s hand blue and their fingers red. Older kids might get a kick out of doing this themselves, though I would recommend doing this for your little little ones 😉
Step Three:
Place their painted hand next to the flagpole and make sure their little red fingers are spread out. Press their hand onto the paper and carefully lift. You should now have a cute little blue and red hand print with white spacing between the fingers. Allow for the paint to dry.
Step Four:
Once the paint is dry give your child three little star stickers and help them place the stickers in the blue portion of the flag. And there you have it – your child’s version of the American Flag! Make sure to display it leading up to and throughout the holiday and steal a few moments to tell them about it.
Here are a few fun facts to share about our flag:
– Our flag has thirteen stripes to represent the thirteen colonies
– There are fifty stars to represent the fifty states
– The color white is a symbol of purity and innocence
– Red stands for valor and hardiness
– Blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice
