DLTK's Crafts for Kids
Canada Maple Leaf Tree Craft
There are a variety of versions to the craft to add
complexity for older children.
The craft is simple enough for young kids to contribute but still fun for even mom to
make. I like doing the tissue paper version but it's tough for
preschoolers to make -- the templates are more appropriate for them.
There are a number of variations on this craft depending on which
templates you print:
Template Version (younger children): print the trunk template
and the maple leaves template and paste the leaves on the tree. If you want a very well covered tree, print two copies of the
maple leaves template. Draw a picture to fill in the bottom of the
template like Kaitlyn did!
Tissue Paper Version (older children): cut 1.5 inch squares
of tissue paper, wrap around the eraser end of a pencil and glue to the
trunk template.
Rather than using the Trunk template, you can decorate a
"homemade" trunk (to make the trunk, trace your child's
arm from the elbow up, including the fingers)
Materials:
printer,
paper,
scissors,
glue,
something to
colour with.
You will also need finger paint if you choose the first option.
Instructions:
Print out the template of choice.
Colour pieces, as necessary. (For a change
of pace, try using different mediums than you typically do, such as paints or
pastels).
Cut out the pieces. This step may require
adult assistance. Don't worry too much about getting the tree branches cut out
perfectly.
Glue the maple leaves all over the tree to decorate.
You can glue the entire tree to a decorated
background (blue construction paper, with green tissue paper for grass and white cotton
balls for clouds works very nicely!)
Templates:
Close the template window after printing to return to this screen.
Set page margins to zero if you have trouble fitting the template on one
page (FILE, PAGE SETUP or FILE, PRINTER SETUP in most browsers).
