It’s no secret that little kids love to dance, and dance
they do. They dance on their way to breakfast,
they dance as they get dressed for preschool, they even dance while strapped in
their car-boosters in a way which allows them to kick you in the back of your
seat to the beat. Yes kids love to
dance. They don’t need music playing in
the background, they don’t need instruments to strum or toot, they don’t need
special dresses, pom poms or battons... but... when they do have these added extras... wow! Look out; those little rockers, prima
ballerinas and funk n’ groovers really know how to knock it up a notch.
This month’s parent submission comes from an Australian mother of two girls who has made a very nifty (thankfully silent) dance aid – ‘the dancing ribbon twirler.’ This is a perfect ballerina party craft; quick, affordable and classy. Simply leave pre-painted curtain rings, and pre-cut ribbons on the table for the guests, explain what they need to do, and with minimal assistance, they should be able to fashion their own dancing ribbon. Once everyone is finished, put the music on and let everyone get up and dance!
Here’s what you’ll need for the ballet party craft project:
- One or two timber curtain rings per child (remove any metal eyelets or hooks that might be attached and sand any rough holes that are left behind).
- Several rolls of ribbon in at least 3 colours (choose complimentary shades – such as all pastels, all neons, or all rainbow brights).
Now, here’s how to make ribbon twirlers:
- Optional - Paint the curtain rings whatever color you like – or leave them as they were purchased, either stained or in their natural timber color.
- Cut a series of ribbons at least the length of your arm (say 1.2 m / 4’).
- Loop a ribbon around the ring and at its half way point tie it off in a knot (it might slip around the ring but the ribbon won’t fall off the ring.)
- Trim the end of the ribbon to make it neat (you can heat seal with a lighter if you prefer, but this is an acquired habit, so take care).
- Now repeat 4 or 5 more times with other coloured ribbons.
Even if you’re not having a ballet party, this is the perfect activity to do with a large group of friends at any party, as a class activity, or a rainy day get together... so go on... get crafty and dance!
(PS – there’s plenty more ballet craft ideas on my other site!)
(PPS - a special thank you to my new friend Roudi over at C is for Craft who has awarded me the Leibster Award - YAY - I love a bit of blog lovin' so thank you Roudi, and if you're up for a bit of blog hoppin' pop over and say hi!)
