In this post (PART 1), we show you how we made these simple but effective fish.
Can you tell what we used to create the fish scales?
Assemble the materials ready for creating. We used cardboard fish shapes that I drew and cut out, PVA glue, cut up patty pans/cupcake liners, googly eyes and glitter
First I demonstrated the technique of layering and overlapping the "scales" as is found on real fish so that she could learn and practice a new skill. I'd omit this step with younger children
Cover the fish with glue
The demonstrated technique of layering kind of went out the window when she was sticking on the scales but it's a learning process
Her finished fish without any assistance
For contrast, we wanted the little fish to be sparkly fish. Here we stuck the eye down first so it would attach better than over the top of glitter. Covering with glue (and avoiding the eye) was very good fine motor skill and coordination practice due to the small and more fiddly size
Cover with glitter. A favourite part!
Shake off when dry. Taa-daa!
Another of her finished fish
Some tips:
- If you don't have these materials at home, simply substitute them with materials you do have available to you. We used patty pans due to their texture but coloured paper would be fine (you could even crinkle it first to give it some texture)
- I suggest using thick cardboard for the fish templates as they will become too floppy under the weight of the glue and embellishments if you use paper or thin cardboard
- Take the time to focus on improving particular skills with your child and help them to practice, ie. Wiping excess glue before pasting to avoid drips.
- Extend this activity by having your child draw the fish templates themselves and/or attempt the cutting of the templates and other materials
- Making things that look visually pleasing as the end result help your child feel proud about what they have created.
- Part 2- Click here to see how we make the underwater diorama for the fish to live in.
Debs :)
