Cork Leaf Stamping

Lesson Plan:

Activity:

Cork Leaf Stamping

Lesson plan developed by Ms. Erika Geelhoed, BA Ed

Age Group:

Preschool

* Lesson plan objective and assessment can be adapted to use this activity with toddlers.

Objectives:

Children will:

tell about their work and the art technique used.
practice fine-motor skills.

CDA Competency Standard:

II.7.4b

Candidate promotes individual expression and creativity
- b) Facilitates child-directed and process oriented creative experiences

Cork Leaf Stamping

Materials:

paint
corks
paper
paintbrush

Procedure:

After setting up materials in an appropriate area, show the children how to create the trunk of the tree using the paintbrush, and the leaves using the corks as stamps.
Encourage the children to try creating on their own.

**Do not worry if their trees do not turn out perfect. This activity is intended to focus on the process not the product.

Ask the children questions during the activity such as:
- Why did you choose those colors?
- Have you ever seen a tree like that before? Tell me about it.
When the children are finished, allow their work to dry completely before displaying around the classroom or putting them in the children’s portfolio.

Assessment:

Observe and record the children’s fine-motor skills during the activity. How well did they control the cork when stamping? Record what the children had to say about the activity and finished piece as well.

Online Early Childhood Education

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Incorporating Montessori Elements in Program Planning

Children are often capable of more than they are allowed. Certain preconceived notions may inhibit a teacher’s comfort level with independence for the children in his or her care. One of the simplest ways to incorporate Montessori elements in program planning is to first begin with setting children up for success with independent habits.

Some examples:

Adapt the environment
Place coat hooks near the door and at eye level for the children. Provide step stools for hand washing. Ensure that learning materials are easily accessible for all children.

Create routines
Teach the children to take their coats off and hang them up themselves each time they enter the classroom. Do not do it for them. If they forget, simply give them a gentle reminder. Create consistent routines for all children to adhere to. They will know what comes next and how to adapt and will make positive choices.

Facilitate
Give students small crumb sweepers and dust pans to clean up their mess. Keep scissors and sponges on the lunch table for older children for cutting bags of snacks and cleaning up lunch spills.