We aren’t lion…this craft is too much fun!
Teaching a child about community is an important aspect of his or her self-worth and helps to build important life skills like teamwork and communication. Lions are a fascinating example of a complex community from the natural world because of how a pride depends on its members for survival.
Use this fun lion craft to emphasize the importance of being social and caring for others all while practicing developmental skills like cutting, painting, and gluing.
According to the African Wildlife Federation, the conservation status of the lion species is vulnerable due to overhunting and rapidly declining habitats. You can use your time together to discuss the importance of natural habitats and making an impact to preserve Earth’s majestic creatures.
Materials
- A White Paper Plate
- Construction Paper – Yellow, Orange, Brown or Beige
- Paint – Yellow, Orange & Black
- Sponge to paint
- Glue
- String or yarn
- Big Googly Eyes
- Scissors
- Pencil
Preparing the Paper Plate
Step 1: Using a sponge, paint the paper plate by lightly dabbing the surface and blending the colors.
Creating the Curly Mane
Step 2: Cut the construction paper into strips, varying the width (and length if desired).
- Using the end of a pencil, wrap each strand of paper around the utensil to create a tight coil.
- Remove the paper by sliding the coil off the paintbrush and let naturally unravel.
The First Round of Paper
Step 3: Following the circumference of the paper plate, glue each strand of paper into the paper plate leaving a gap in-between each.
Be generous with the application of glue to ensure each strand is securely stuck!
Literacy Connection: The Lion and the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney is an adaptation of one of Aesop’s most popular fables. This wordless version with award-winning illustrations highlights the natural beauty of the African Serengeti. It celebrates the story of a frightful lion and timid mouse who learn that taking a chance with a random act of kindness can change lives in a miraculous way.
