As today was the first Sunday of Advent, I thought we should make an Advent Wreath. A couple of years ago, I found this project: http://www.catholicicing.com/advent-wreath-craft-for-catholic-kids/
At the time, I had not managed to find pony beads in single colours. I managed to make a modified version with just pipecleaners, but the effect was not as good. A few weeks ago, when I went to the teacher supply store for the bordette we needed for the crowns, I also found pony beads in single colours! I immediately purchased them and made plans to make the wreaths again. I knew it would take too much work to find green tulle, as suggested on the website, so I substituted sparkly garland, which is so much easier to find at the dollar store at this time of year.
To prepare for the session, I made a prototype wreath and prepared a few green pipecleaner rings and cut the yellow pipecleaners and garland.
At the time, I had not managed to find pony beads in single colours. I managed to make a modified version with just pipecleaners, but the effect was not as good. A few weeks ago, when I went to the teacher supply store for the bordette we needed for the crowns, I also found pony beads in single colours! I immediately purchased them and made plans to make the wreaths again. I knew it would take too much work to find green tulle, as suggested on the website, so I substituted sparkly garland, which is so much easier to find at the dollar store at this time of year.
To prepare for the session, I made a prototype wreath and prepared a few green pipecleaner rings and cut the yellow pipecleaners and garland.
Supplies needed
- Pipecleaner (yellow and green)
- beads (purple and pink)
- Christmas garlands (a variety of colours)
I started the session by asking everyone what did we just do before we left for activities? We lit the Advent Wreath. I asked what did we do last week? We made crowns, exclaimed one child. I reminded them that last week was Christ the King, which is the last Sunday of the Church year. This Sunday is the first Sunday of Advent, which is the beginning of the church year and when we prepare for Christmas and that today we will make Advent wreaths. As I handed out the materials and gave the beads, one child noted that the priest was wearing purple. I agreed, and told them to also look at the banners and other linens as they would be purple, too.
I have to admit, but my feelings towards this project is somewhat abivalent. The end product is pretty good, but I think it might be a project that is better with older children, perhaps children preparing for First Communion. It was a bit fussy for some of the kids, who lost interest and walked off. Those who were interested were frustrated by the candles toppling over. This was fixed by pushing down on the beads while pulling on the “flame” after putting the garland on, but you had to be careful not to pull too hard on the flame, or the green pipecleaner below would be pulled through, too, creating other problems.
So I’m not sure if I would do this particular project again; this version might be easier for smaller hands: http://whenrunningamok.blogspot.ca/2012/11/an-advent-wreath-made-by-kids-for-kids.html?&cuid=36cc06ba707ec4c9aa6e1710681df6d1
Till next time,
Caroline
So I’m not sure if I would do this particular project again; this version might be easier for smaller hands: http://whenrunningamok.blogspot.ca/2012/11/an-advent-wreath-made-by-kids-for-kids.html?&cuid=36cc06ba707ec4c9aa6e1710681df6d1
Till next time,
Caroline