Fourth of July - Wind Sock

The Fourth of July is quickly approaching and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than to make decorations! This kid friendly decoration is very quick and easy to paint and assemble. But there are several things to consider. First, the age of the child. Younger children might have a little problem being engaged through this whole activity. I will be giving a couple of tips to help speed up the process if your little one gets a little anxious. Secondly, is always time. The materials needed could change depending on the time and how many you would like to make. 

Materials Needed

1. Tin cans or plastic cups
2. Ribbon
3. Hot glue gun
4. Twine or string
5. Paint
6. Paint Brushes

Steps: 

1. Select the colors for painting. We went with the traditional, red, white, and blue, but if you want to make it more unique to your child's taste use different colors. 

2. Prepare your painting station. Get our the paint brushes, paint, and palette (paper plate or plastic cup).It is always good to have a couple extra paper towels or wash rags ready, just in case of a spill.

3. Have fun paining! We used an old yogurt container for our wind sock and it took a few coats of paint to cover the wording on the container. Time Saving tip - use a blow dryer to speed up the drying process. 

4.  Pick out the ribbon. It is up to the artists how many and how long they want each ribbon (depending on the age). Let the older kids take more ownership in their work by cutting ribbon or helping the little ones cut ribbon.

5. Cut a hole in the top of the cup.

6. Glue. I personally think this is the parent, teacher, or guardian responsibility. To get the kids involved, let the little turkey hand the next ribbon to you.

7. Pull the string or twine through the top of the cup and tie a knot in the inside of the cup.

8. Wind sock complete!

Other time saving tips - 

Don't like to paint or don't have enough time? No big deal. You can also use Solo cups during this activity. Reusing plastic containers require a lot of paint and patience. This might be a good alternative for younger age groups as well. 

Want to string a couple of wind socks together? Simply add a paperclip in the inside of the cup to hold the string and then continue stringing. 

Happy Fourth of July! Enjoy!