For the Dads

Father's Day comes around every June and offers us a day to say thanks to dads, grandpas, uncles, and others in our lives. I remember making crafts at school (most of which my dad still has) for Father's Day. It was always nice to know that I would always have something for my dad. Of course, not all kids may have a dad in their lives, so Father's Day also presents a chance to talk about other people who are important in our lives as well.

Since Father's Day falls at the end of the school year, it presents a great chance for students to show off their fabulous writing skills. I would make books for each student with a piece of folded colored construction paper for the cover and one or two sheets of writing paper folded in half for the pages on the inside. Over the course of a few days we would share different things that either we loved about our dads, things we liked to do with them, or anything else that was in our hearts. The students would then work on completing their Father's Day books by writing a page each day. At the end of the project each child then had a book for their dad (or for the other special person they had selected) that talked about that person, what they did together, why they were important, and special memories they had together. I always loved seeing the thought and creativity and love that went into their books.

To go with the book, each child would create a hand print in clay. A simple clay recipe to make is to mix 1 tablespoon oil, 1/2 cup salt, and 1/4 cup of water together. Once these are mixed together, add 1 cup all purpose flour and knead the mixture. This makes enough for one child's handprint. Take the dough and roll it out until it is about 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch thick. Allow each child to push their hand onto the circle to make the print. Using a toothpick, write each child's name or initials on the back of the clay (be careful not to push too hard or it may go through to the other side). Bake the clay at 250 degrees - depending on the width and depth of the print this can take several hours, but monitor the prints carefully and make sure not to "overcook". The next day students can use paint(s) to decorate and personalize their print. One of my favorite ways to wrap this gift is to take a student's painting from the art center and place it face down. Then place the handprint in the center. Gather the sides in the middle and tie together with a ribbon or bow. It's a "recipe" for a fabulous Father's Day!