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I was first introduced to two-time Caldecott Honor winner Marla Frazee, through her book All the World. Upon finding Stars by Mary Lyn Ray, I was delighted to see more of the same beautiful illustrations paired with a sweet, short story about the mysterious stars shining above our heads. We turned this fantastic experience into a fun fine motor activity and it is awesome!
Art and Craft Collage with Star Stickers
Making art with a young child is a fun time to help them explore their imagination and develop fine motor skills. My daughter likes to play the game called “follow and cut”. This means she makes up directions for me to follow as we cut along together. Once done, we open the paper and explore the possibilities of our new found shape. Our project began with paper coffee filters and after a series of dictations, this one turned into a peacock!
We built a new world around this fine feathery bird. After reading Stars we of course wanted to create a night time scene with star stickers and a drawn in moon. We discussed what else this pair of peacocks might encounter in their night adventure and placed a bridge, river and assortment of blooming flowers.
My favorite way of making art with little ones is allowing them to be fluid in their materials and concepts. Even if something doesn’t fit the reality I know, I accept its place in this made up world knowing that the child’s imagination is fueled and active.
Fine Motor Craft with a Star Wand
Our second craft was inspired by part of the story Mary Lyn Ray tells about these twinkling gems.
We first cut out a paper star, took a quick walk outside to find a stick, attached the two and tied ribbon on to provide a touch of colorful decoration.
There was much cutting, taping and measuring! My little girl festively wore a star printed sweater.
We found the bead bowl! Here we matched and compared patterns. I placed them in various piles and we counted out each different kind.
I love the look of intensity, such concentration!
Success! We read the book many times in the course of these art and crafts. I hope you all enjoy them too.
Other read along fine motor ideas:
This week’s extra fine motor ideas from the group:
Fine Motor Science Activities from Little Bins for Little Hands
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