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 color with.
- You will also need finger paint if you choose the first option.
Instructions:
- Print out the template of choice.
- Color craft pieces if you printed the black and white version of the template. (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).