I love searching Pinterest or craft books for something new Eli and I can try. I love it when we go somewhere that has a project all laid out for us too. But although Eli and I learn new skills and see new possibilities when we do these activities, I know from my graduate school classes in education and creativity that an instruction-laden approach isn't always best. Thus I've been thrilled that one branch of our local library system is particularly great about providing craft times where a kid's creativity can go unleashed. There are times when they simply put supplies in a room, announce the event, and let kids loose with their parents.
Case in point is the recent "Tube Day" they held. I brought Eli after school and we walked in to find cardboard, masking tape, paper, plastic bottles, cardboard tubes, scissors, and small cars. For a while there were other kids in the room so we could watch what they were doing as they made ramps for their cars and raced them. For a bit, Eli jumped into enjoying their company. Then he began working on his own tube. I helped him a little, but tried only to ask enough questions to help him understand how gravity would help a car roll and that smooth joints would keep cars from getting stuck. I helped with cutting and taping. Otherwise, Eli was in charge.
We had a ball with a paper towel tube ramp for Matchbox cars, but then Eli found an empty reel for Scotch tape and wanted to try making a race tube for it.
Paper towel and toilet paper tubes were too small, so we cut some water bottles and taped them together. Perfect! And it was fun to be able to see our round object roll through. We were able to keep our work, so we've been playing with our tubes at home. Eli's shooter marbles have found a new life!
Thanks, Library! (I try not to reveal details about where we live since this blog is online. Local friends, contact me and I'll give you more information about these programs.)
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