Leading up to the highly anticipated winter break, students were able to do a bunch of festive activities, but in Mrs. Spila’s room, kids were able to make a pretty fun project. Students got to make their own ornaments. An interview with Mrs. Spila helped to find out why she started this tradition.
When asked the reason for starting this fun activity, she said that she had gotten the idea off of Pinterest to make at home. The following year she thought she should bring her extra supplies since for students to use and try out. Each year she asks her students if they would like to make some ornaments and they always say yes. Mrs. Spill has now been doing this for five years. I have made ornaments the last two years. The first year I made a blue and purple ornament and this year I made a pink, yellow, and blue one. Her students seem to really enjoy this project because of their enthusiasm to use their creativity in making one.
Next, the process of making an ornament is quite fun. First, you make sure to put gloves on and set up your ornament using a pencil and a sticky eraser. Secondly, you wipe your ornament with an alcohol wipe to clean the surface and pick out your paint colors. Next, you use your chosen colors around the ornament in whatever pattern you would like and let dry. Finally, you can enjoy your beautiful ornament by hanging it up on your Christmas tree at home or by displaying in a different fashion.
Lastly, since Mrs. Spila highly values her students’ education, she was asked how this activity could be academically beneficial. She claims that they have been able to use their creativity along with problem solving skills when their products run low. For instance, they have made their own paint using 2 ounces of 91% isopropyl and the ink from a Sharpie marker. Students are able to tr again if they dislike the look of their ornament by wiping the paint off with an alcohol wipe. As you can see this activity is more than just a simple craft. To conclude, Mrs. Spila loves to watch her kids use their creativity to make beautiful ornaments and have fun. Hopefully, you will try this at home with your friends and family.
