Decorate a Butterfly

Decorate a Butterfly. This is a process based lesson that will result in a finished product of a butterfly.  This lesson was part of the Butterfly Theme Art Lesson Playdate.

Ages: 2-3 year-olds

• Modify for older children by having them trace the butterfly and then cut along the tracing.
• Modify for older children by introducing symmetry.

Materials:

• Tag Board, 12 x 18 in
• Contact paper, like this Clear Contact Paper, 18″ x 9′
• Tissue Paper, cut into small squares, but not too small a toddler can’t hold it.
• Sequins & Spangles, like these Chenille Kraft Company Sequins & Spangles 4 Oz.

Directions for adult:

1. Fold the tag board in half and cut out a butterfly shape.
2. Attach the contact paper to the tag board.

Directions for child:

1. Add tissue paper, and sequins to butterfly to give the wings color and sparkle.

When finished hang in a window!

Skills:

• Fine motor coordination by picking up small items like the sequins and separating the tissue paper out from the pile.
• Decision making on what colors and sequins to use.

Extend with Vocabulary:

I am big on using “real”vocabulary and using it often knowing that lots of repeating will eventually allow the concept and vocabulary to take hold. While he works and makes choices on what to add to his picture I will use the vocabulary. When we observe the final picture in the window and marvel at our creation, I will use the vocabulary.

• Talk about the color choices they are using, and/or have them tell you and show you what colors they are using.
• If the sequins are decorative and come in shapes like circles, and stars, use the vocabulary or have them use the vocabulary for the items they are choosing.
• Transparent: Lets light all the way though. Can see all the way through. The Contact paper is transparent.
• Opaque: Doesn’t let light through. You can not see through. The Tagboard and the sequins are opaque.
• Translucent: Only lets some light through. The tissue paper is translucent.

Extend Learning

Listen and sing Little Butterfly Friend by Elmo