Oct 26 2008
For an indoor party it’s a good thing to think of balloons — they always look festive. So do the traditional decorations for a Christmas party of paper chains, holly and ivy, tinsel and glitter, stars, shining balls and bells. But you will want other ideas for parties with a particular theme. Continue Reading »
Oct 21 2008
Fancy dress is fun, and although not every family has time or talent to make costumes which will be worn once only, some Pooh characters can be very simply made. Christopher Robin, for example, needs little more than shorts, a shirt and sandals, plus a soft hat. Or when guests arrive you could give them all ears and a tail to show which of the Pooh book characters they are. Continue Reading »
Oct 07 2008
A birthday table makes a charming and practical focus on this special day. Family tradition prefers to use the same piece of furniture every birthday: a coffee table, chest or sideboard would be suitable.
A festive ‘birthday cloth’ covers the table which bears cards, presents, flowers and maybe the birthday cake. In some countries the cake appears at breakfast time, in which case the birthday child (or adult) waits outside the room while the family gathers around the table. When the cake candles are alight, a little bell is rung to give the signal for the door to be opened and the birthday song to begin. Continue Reading »
Apr 04 2008
AGE 2 TO 3 YEARS
These activities provide experience of measuring short periods of time. At this age few children will be able to count beyond two or three, so we are not expecting to measure the time passed in standard units but rather to let the child experience a period of time in comparison with other things happening in his life.
What you need
Various egg timers, an hour glass. (These activities can be done either inside the house or in the garden.)
How to play
Mar 30 2008
AGE 2 TO 3 YEARS
In addition to all the reasons given earlier in the book for encouraging art and craft in the home, this particular activity will give your child the opportunity for self-expression and to communicate his ideas. Ideally you could do this activity with leftover vegetables, or fruit, that aren’t fresh enough to eat. (You should always be concerned to discourage waste). The activity will also help your child develop new skills.
What you need
Different surfaces on which to print such as coloured paper, newsprint, rice paper, paper towels, plain paper, old wallpaper, or fabrics. Thick tempera or powder paint
Suitable vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, celery and fruits like oranges and apples
You could also make a printing pad by putting absorbent paper or wet cloth in a shallow dish and then adding the paint. Continue Reading »
