Super Simple Valentine's Day Activities: Fun and Easy Holiday Projects for Kids

Gr 2-4--The projects in each of these crafting guides combine skills young people already possess (cutting, gluing) and talents requiring a bit more precision (measuring, tracing). The necessary materials in each title are mostly common classroom items: construction paper, tape, yarn, glue--and a few special supplies such as air-dry clay or a battery-powered candle. Most of the end results are decorative (wreaths, garlands, ornaments, and mobiles), but kids will also find a number of games, costume items, cards, and edible crafts. Many can be adapted to fit other themes: the patriotic wreath craft in Presidents' Day would work any time of year, as could the "star-spangled wind sock." Thomas Jefferson's wig, made of cotton balls glued to a paper bag, is sure to elicit laughs. Occasional photos of real kids in action add credence to the achievability of these endeavors. VERDICT This series contains a bevy of workhorse activities and is an excellent addition to maker spaces.