Preschool/KG
FromMore Than Painting,
Sally Moomaw and Brenda Hieronymus
What to have
- one or more warming trays (depending on the number of adults to supervise)
- aluminum foil, cut to the size of the warming tray
- selection of large crayons, with the paper removed
- pot holder or child’s glove, for protection from the heat (optional)
What to do
This activity combines art with science exploration as children use crayons to draw on aluminum foil placed on top of a warming tray. As the crayons melt, they slide across the surface and produce brilliant colors. Although the warming tray does not get extremely hot on the surface, teachers must carefully supervise this activity. Teachers may want to use a variety of surfaces over a period of a few days to allow children to compare the results. Helpful Hints
Create crayons on a stick to elevate children’s hands high above the warming tray. Heat an oven to 250 degrees and turn it off. Place crayon shavings, about 1/2-inch deep, in muffin tins and melt in the oven. Insert a craft stick into the blob before it completely solidifies.
Why
Child will experiment with the crayons on the warming tray and observe the results. Some children may comment on the changes in the crayons as they melt and later return to a solid state. Some children will create lines, shapes, and designs with the crayons.
For more activities check out
More Than Painting: Exploring the Wonders of Art
By Sally Moomaw and Brenda Hieronymus Copyright 1999 Preschool/KG