Snip Snap

Being new to blogging, I decided to take a virtual tour through this world and see what else exist out there.  As I am sure most of you are aware there is much.  So much.  I have spent the last few nights attached to my computer with a growing sense of being sucked into a time abyss, nights virtually being sucked away.  I did however find a blog that I really like -  www.findingninee.com. . It is not flashy and photoshopped but she writes freely with sincerity and humour which appeals to me.  It relates to children with disabilities, particularly her child, which got me thinking about my children and their individual struggles and how we are all to a lesser (or greater) degree challenged, some disabilities are just easier to see.  Imperfect children being raised by imperfect parents. I particularly like the section entitled 'Our Land' which really speaks of embracing difference, removing fear and approaching life with compassion and understanding.  Is this not what we aim to teach our children?  So give it a peek.

Moving on to the creative stuff...

I have been working at The Oak Leaf in Sandton (theoakleaf.co.za) running crafts for over a month now.  When I first began I had great plans for running it like an art class complete with continuous themes, stories and movement, but alas this was not to be for it is a restaurant and therefore a place of transience, so I have adjusted my thinking and projects accordingly.  I guide crafts at the Oak Leaf and I teach art from home. Art is a slower, process driven event. Both have a definite value.   The following project I did in both places...

Snip Snap

This is a puppet made from a polystyrene cup, if you can find a white paper cup that would be preferable.  The problem with polystyrene for crafts (vs art) is that it not very absorbent and therefore drying time for paint and glue is silly.  I tried using a glue stick instead of  wood glue but that was not effective either and so I finally settled on double sided tape.My issue with this is that it steals creativity from the small child  as an adult then has to stick the tape down and peel it off (tis tricksy for little fingers).  I did at least get them to cut the shapes out to prevent it from becoming an mere assembling project.  The finished puppet, I am glad to say, brought much joy.

So many variations can be created.  I would suggest adding arms with pipecleaners and beads.  Let your little artists imaginations take over.  Create a family of them and put on a show.  Or do as my crazed students did and run around making a range of grizzly noises pretending to eat each other.  "Here comes Snorg" said Angel, "and he is hungry!"

Happy making.