Recently I found a bag of paper scraps. The white paper was left over from a project (from a couple of years ago!); the shapes were triangles and rectangles mostly. I remembered a post from Irresistible Ideas for Play-Based Learning and decided we would use these scraps in some way.
This week was the week. I put out the paper scraps, colored masking tape, scissors, markers, and stickers. I did add some manila paper for a base (if needed). I had no idea what the children would do with them. I knew they would like the tape. Last week we made scrolls and they loved taping sticks to paper. So I figured that they would just create. At the table, they asked, "What do we do?" "Use the tape and paper," I said. "You can tape paper and use the stickers." A couple of girls reluctantly sat down and tentatively began to work.
After a while the table was full. I had to encourage children to finish so others could have a turn to work. I saw a wide variety of creations.
And one boy balanced the rolls of tape on his head, stacking and balancing one on another until he had four or five! The kids debated about whether he was a king (with a crown) or an angel (with a halo). I refrained from commenting.
This creative exercise was fun for them and continuing education for me. I know they are creative. But I'm always surprised at how they can build on each other's ideas and take simple resources to new heights.
I have lots of scraps left over. Maybe next time I'll combine them with my lids. Hmmm.
