A few weeks ago I read this post by Rachel about how she made Comet balls for her Wednesday playgroup meeting, what fun!
I have been wanting to fit in another trip to Violet's preschool for quite some time but was having a hard time A) finding the time to get it all together and B) deciding on which of the many many ideas I had to share would be the best. When I saw these comet balls they seemed like the perfect thing!
I love that this project has many different steps for a child to do, even one as young as two (yes, Henry got to come and do the project too, he was thrilled!). Of course, there are certain levels of adult help that may be needed that will vary between ages and skills of the children (we had children between the ages of 2-5), but as long as you are prepared for a mess of beans and rice, it's not a problem ;)
At home I cut out circles with approximately a 5 1/2" diameter and ironed them. I cut many so that the kid's would have lots of options, they really do love to look at all of the pretty fabric! :)
I also cut many different 12" x 12" squares of silky or flowey fabric that I had on hand, ribbons could work too. And brought my $1 section of Target buckets with me for the beans and rice...
At school, I let the kids pic out their fabric and had them put their circles with the right sides together. This was a bit confusing to some, but when I showed them what was going to happen it was cool! Once they had their circles ready I sewed most of the way around the circle. They were all intrigued by the sound and the speed and the look of the sewing machine...Then, Violet's teacher and I helped them turn them right side out.
The next step was for them to use scoops and funnels and beans and rice to fill up their circles.
Once they were full they picked out their "tail", I pinned it and then sewed it up.
Just like that they were done!
After each comet was done I gently tossed it to the rightful owner and each child grinned with excitement from what they just helped to make! Very fun! :)
Seriously, no matter what age you are...these things are fun...I even had to come home and make one for myself,
they are just fun to throw and feel and play with. Not to mention, fantastic hand eye coordination practice!
Have a great day!! :)
PS. Don't forget, you have until 8PM tomorrow night, March 25, to make a comment on my Little House post and have a chance to win my handmade The Little House pillow and "The Little House" Book! It's a great all in one gift for any little kid!!
