When we visited Springboard International Bilingual School (SIBS) in Shunyi, the spring sun gave warmth that made everyone in the school cheery and lively. We saw that in Noah, a Grade 3 student, as we began making this easy-to-make clay craft with art teacher Joe Qiao. She said the craft, which makes use of recycled throw-away bottle jars and cups, mixes creativity and awareness of environmental conservation and wildlife protection for young kids. Noah enjoyed every step, and even surprised us with his finished product.
Estimated time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Suitable for: Kids 5 and up
Materials:
– One pack of assorted clay
– Used cup or jar
Instructions
- Select a clay color then put it on the surface of the used cup or jar. Roll the clay-covered cup or jar to make sure the clay is spread equally.
- Choose another clay color that will make your chosen animal’s head. In this case, Noah rubbed brown clay into a ball to make a little teddy bear head. Use other colors to create the eyes, mouth, nose, and other parts.
- Once the clay head is complete, put it on top of the cup or jar.
- Make animal limbs using the same-colored clay. Roll the clay strips and then put on the side of the head, then just above the bottom of the cup or jar.
- Make animal limbs using the same-colored clay. Roll the clay strips and then put on the side of the head, then just above the bottom of the cup or jar.
- (Optional) The cup can also be a pen holder or a flower vase.
Photos by Uni You
This is an updated version of the article that originally appeared on p. 26-27 of beijingkids March Issue. Download the digital copy here.
