Dia De Los Muertos Craft For Kids
Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Mexican holiday celebrated on November 1st and 2nd. It is a time to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away. Many families celebrate this holiday by creating altars, or ofrendas, decorated with flowers, candles, and photos of their loved ones. Children can also participate in this celebration by making their own Dia de los Muertos crafts. Here are some ideas for easy and fun crafts that kids can make:
Paper Marigolds
Marigolds are a traditional flower used to decorate Dia de los Muertos altars. To make paper marigolds, cut out several flower shapes from orange and yellow construction paper. Then, cut long, thin strips of green construction paper to use as stems. Glue the flowers to the stems and arrange them in a vase or use them to decorate an altar.
Sugar Skull Masks
Sugar skulls are another traditional symbol of Dia de los Muertos. To make sugar skull masks, start with a plain white mask or cut a mask shape out of white cardboard. Then, use paint or markers to decorate the mask with colorful designs and patterns. Add details like flowers, hearts, and swirls. Finally, glue on some fake flowers, sequins, or glitter to make the mask extra festive.
Paper Calavera Masks
Calaveras, or skulls, are also a common theme in Dia de los Muertos art. To make paper calavera masks, cut out a skull shape from white paper or cardboard. Then, use markers, paint, or colored pencils to add designs and patterns to the skull. You can also add details like flowers, crossbones, or a top hat. Cut out eye holes and attach a ribbon or elastic to the sides of the mask so you can wear it.
Altar Decorations
Children can also help decorate a Dia de los Muertos altar. Gather photos of loved ones who have passed away and arrange them on a table or shelf. Add flowers, candles, and other decorations like papel picado (cut paper banners) or small figurines of skeletons or animals. Children can also write messages or draw pictures on small pieces of paper to add to the altar.
Papel Picado
Papel picado is a traditional Mexican craft that involves cutting designs into colorful tissue paper. To make papel picado, stack several pieces of tissue paper together and fold them accordion-style. Then, use scissors to cut designs into the paper, such as flowers, animals, or words like "Familia" or "Amor". Unfold the paper and hang it up as a decoration for your Dia de los Muertos celebration.
Conclusion
Dia de los Muertos is a beautiful holiday that allows families to celebrate and remember loved ones who have passed away. Children can participate in this celebration by making their own Dia de los Muertos crafts, such as paper marigolds, sugar skull masks, or papel picado. They can also help decorate an altar with photos, flowers, and other decorations. These crafts are a fun and meaningful way to honor the traditions of Dia de los Muertos.
