Martin Luther King Jr Day Craft Ideas
Martin Luther King Jr Day is a federal holiday that celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This holiday is observed on the third Monday of January each year. Many people choose to celebrate this day by engaging in activities that honor the memory of Dr. King. One popular way to do this is by creating crafts with a Martin Luther King Jr Day theme. Here are some craft ideas to inspire you:
1. Peace Dove Crafts
The dove has long been a symbol of peace, and it is often used in crafts related to Martin Luther King Jr Day. One simple idea is to create a dove out of construction paper. Cut out a dove shape from white paper, and then have children decorate it with markers, glitter, or other materials. You can also make a dove out of a paper plate by cutting out a wing shape and gluing it to the side of the plate. Paint the plate white, and then add eyes and a beak.
2. Dream Catchers
Dr. King was famous for his "I Have a Dream" speech, and many people use this as inspiration for crafts. One idea is to create a dream catcher out of a paper plate. Cut out the center of the plate, leaving only the rim. Then, have children decorate the rim with markers, paint, or other materials. Cut out several strips of paper or ribbon, and tie them to the rim of the plate. Add feathers, beads, or other embellishments to the ends of the strips.
3. Unity Wreaths
Dr. King was a champion of unity and diversity, and many people choose to create crafts that reflect these values. One idea is to create a unity wreath out of construction paper. Cut out several hand shapes from different colors of paper, and then glue them together in a circle to form a wreath. Have children write messages of unity and peace on each hand shape. You can also add a ribbon or bow to the wreath.
4. Freedom Quilts
Quilting was a popular activity during the Civil Rights Movement, and many people choose to honor this tradition by creating freedom quilts. One idea is to create a quilt out of squares of fabric. Have children draw or paint pictures on each square that represent freedom, peace, or other themes related to Martin Luther King Jr Day. Then, sew the squares together to form a quilt.
5. Paper Chain People
Dr. King fought for the rights of all people, regardless of their race or ethnicity. One way to celebrate this is by creating paper chain people out of construction paper. Cut out several strips of paper, and then have children decorate them with markers, paint, or other materials. Then, glue the strips together to form a chain of people holding hands. You can also add faces, hair, and clothing to the people.
These are just a few of the many craft ideas that you can use to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr Day. Whether you are a teacher, parent, or just someone who wants to honor the memory of this great leader, these crafts are a great way to do it.