For my Vermont neighbors, this one might not work today, as last night we got a huge dump of snow. If that’s the case where you are, I hope you’re out playing and building with it! It’s nice and packable today. I’ll post this activity for you to try when things are a little greener, or at least a little less snowy.
Weaving, braiding, and twisting are some very soothing and accessible activities (not to mention great fine motor learning), either when you’re in the forest or inside at home. This kind of project is a great way to keep hands busy during a story, or while sitting in a group and chatting. I’ve had the best conversations with kids while we were working on our weaving or braiding.
There are several ways to go about a nature weaving project.. One of my favorite ways is to get outside and find a small, sturdy “Y” stick for a frame. You’ll want to wind embroidery thread or twine (or any kind of string that won’t break easily) around your Y stick and then tie the ends on tight, to create the weaving surface. Depending on their age, you may have to help your child with this part. Then use found objects like grasses, flowers, sticks, seedpods, leaves, ferns, or things like roving wool or fabric scraps to weave in between the strings. You can also use cardboard as a frame if you aren’t able to find a Y stick.
I like to use these weavings as decorations for home (or outside altars, see Day 2’s activity), or for magic wands during imaginative play, and I’m sure your child will have many other ideas for how to use them!
WAYS TO EXTEND THE ACTIVITY
*Make colorful weavings for neighbors and put on their front lawns as a gift for them to see.
*Instead, make a flower crown (you could use seed pods or dead/dried flowers this time of year).I like to braid something (strong grasses or cattails are what we use in the summer), and then stick the decorations in the braid.
*Make a big frame outside and work on weaving things into it daily. See how it changes as spring arrives!