LOVE Luminaries - Paper Bag Challenge

The Golden Gleam is thrilled to participate in Tinkerlab's Paper Bag Creative Challenge.  We were challenged to create an activity for kids using paper bags.  Dozens of other bloggers, linked below,  participated in the challenge.  You are welcomed to join in in by linking up your creative pape rbag activity for kids at Tinkerlab and The Creative Challenge on Pinterest for a chance to win prizes.
My four year old daughter and I created these love luminaries out of paper bags.  Depending on your children's developmental levels, they may be able to help with all or just some of the steps.



Materials-lunch size paper bags-acrylic or tempera paint-heart shaped cookie cutters-towel-screw-battery operated candles (Do not use candles with flames as paper bags could catch on fire.)-glass craft marbles or sand
Directions-Use heart shaped cookie cutters dipped in paint to stamp the front of a paper bag.


-Allow paint to dry.-With a pencil, write a block letter on each paper bag to spell L-O-V-E.-Place the paper bag on top of a towel. Using a screw, punch holes along outline of each letter.  



-Fill the bottom of the bag with glass marbles or sand to weight the bag down.-Insert a tall, battery operated candle into the bag.  I tried with small tea lights, and the outline of the letters wasn't as clear as using the taller candles.  Do not use candles with real flames because the paper bag could catch on fire.  
My daughter enjoyed stamping with the hearts that she created more decorated bags.  She has enjoyed using them in her imaginary play to pretend they are gift bags for a Valentine's Day party.  



This activity supports creativity in children by allowing children to use paint and stencils to create any design they wish on a paper bag.  It builds fine motor skills by using a small object to punch holes into the bag.  It fosters literacy skills by allowing children to trace letters and use the high frequency word, love, in art to decorate their environment.  
We will return with our regularly scheduled Monday feature - Joy in Minutes - next week!