Popcorn Trees for Fall/Autumn: Autumn Kids Craft

Autumn/Fall Kids Craft - from popcorn!
for Ages 3 years and up with Adult Participation and Supervision 

I originally saw a picture of this craft here, but I did not read the instructions. We tried it our own way and it also turned out great - but different than the original!

Supplies Needed:

• Construction Paper
• Crayons
• White Glue
• Popcorn - cooked and cooled
• Food Coloring
• Water
• 3 Sealable Plastic Bags
• Paper Towels

Time Needed:  

• 15 minutes to make the colored popcorn
• 30 minutes plus drying time for the popcorn trees

What To Do:

1. To color the popcorn:
   
   CAUTION: Food coloring may stain clothing, skin and surfaces.
   • Pour 1 tsp of water and 4-5 drops of food coloring into a sealable plastic bag. Be sure not to add too much water or the popcorn will shrink to nothing!
   • Add cooked popcorn to plastic bag and seal
   • Shake until all popcorn is coated with color
   • Pour out onto paper towels and arrange 1 layer deep. Color may bleed through so you may want to put the paper towels onto a cookie sheet before adding the colored popcorn.
   • Let dry completely
   REPEAT FOR EACH COLOR POPCORN. We used yellow, orange, and green for fall colors.
2. Draw a tree trunk and branches on the construction paper
3. Use white glue to adhere the popcorn pieces to the tree branches
4. Let dry completely
5. You're done! ENJOY!

Don't Forget to Take a photo of your finished project and share it with us on the GummyLump Facebook Fan Page!

Why We Love Crafts for Kids: Art develops creative thinking, provides means of communication and self expression, increases self understanding, strengthens self concepts and confidence, serves as an emotional release, provides decision-making opportunities, develops appreciation for the individuality of others, aids physical coordination, develops work habits and a sense of responsibility, heightens aesthetic awareness and sensitivity, and generates joy!
 
For Children with Special Needs:  Assist your child as much as needed - but allow it to be his project.  Art projects are great for fine motor exercise, and using creativity.

If your child has a limited attention span, have all supplies ready before having him begin the project.

This opportunity for hands-on learning with no wrong choices is ideal to foster self esteem as well.  

Kids Art Supplies  
Construction Paper 

Based on a craft seen here: http://happyhooligans.wordpress.com/2011/09/26/popcorn-trees/