Popcorn Garland
A tradition for many families, I thought it was also a great way to string up some food for the birds for Christmas.
What you need:
- air popped popcorn (let it sit overnight)
- cranberries
- floss
- tapestry needle
The reason you want to use stale popcorn is because it keeps together better than freshly made.
First, I introduced what a popcorn garland is by showing a picture from a children’s book (many books show this, Corduroy’s Christmas Surprise, If you take a mouse to the movies).
Then I showed the kids that these tapestry needles were different that other needles because they weren’t as sharp, but to still watch your fingers because it could still poke you if you weren’t holding it correctly. I showed the kids how to properly hold the popcorn and push through, then slide it along.
I had already pre-threaded the floss (and doubled it), knotted it, and put the first cranberry on so the kids could get started right away.
During the popcorn garland activity, I had other activities going on too, in case there were some kids who weren’t as crafty. Some kids were playing with the Christmas Tree Playdough, and writing letters to our Outdoor Elf.