Mrs. Jones’s Early Pre-K 2 recently created these sparkly umbrellas as part of learning about springtime. It’s a easy craft to recreate at home!

First, cut the shape you want to fill out of a piece of construction paper. If you do not have access to a die-cut machine like we have here, fold your paper and draw half a symmetrical shape (such as a heart or star) with the center on the fold. Have your child cut on the line - great fine-motor practice! - and unfold. Save the center cut-out for another project.

Place the paper with the empty center shape on the sticky side of a piece of contact paper, making sure the whole empty center is covered. Allow your child to sprinkle sequins or glitter on the adhesive. Cover with a white piece of paper (taping the edges down if necessary), flip, and enjoy your beautiful art!

Puffy paint is a wonderful sensory experience for children, both while it’s wet and after it dries. It’s hard to resist feeling these puffy pumpkins in our halls! To make puffy paint at home, mix equal parts shaving cream and white glue. Tint with paint and adjust the mix until it reaches a consistency you like. Cover a table with old newspapers, put on a smock, and dollop some puffy paint on a piece of construction paper. Then let your child loose! Encourage them to push the soft foam around with their hands. Allow to dry for at least 24 hours before hanging your child’s masterpiece.