Jewelery making is a great way to help our little ones refine and master their fine motor skills. It’s also a good way to introduce them to the concepts of measurement and estimation. Both boys and girls will enjoy making jewelry. In addition to the educational component, making jewelery allows children to express themselves creatively. When they are all finished with their special piece, they can wear it with pride or give the jewelery as a special gift to someone.
We first started making our own jewelery when my daughter turned four. It was her fourth birthday party and she wanted a princess themed party. What better craft to do at a tea party full of princesses? The girls all had a great time and they were able to take their pieces home with them.
Now at age seven, my daughter and her brothers still enjoy making their own jewelry. It’s perfect for a rainy day or to break up the same old routine. Since we first started making our jewelery, I have also incorporated some educational fun into the craft. The children don’t even realize they are working on math while having fun. If you haven’t tried jewelry making with your kids yet, below are a few tips you may want to incorporate and the supplies you’ll need.
How to make jewelery with children and incorporate some math fun into the project:
Supplies: Most craft stores will have kits available for sale. You could also piece together your own kit for a fraction of the cost. Either way, here is what you’ll need.
- Durable elastic
- Scissors
- Beads of various sizes and color. Be careful the holes aren’t too small as this can cause frustration when the bead doesn’t go into the elastic easily.
- Small containers for the beads. Tupperware, egg cartons, or baby food jars work great. I would suggest removing the beads from their bags as they can easily spill all over the place and that’s no fun.
Math Fun While Jewelery Making
- Measuring – measure the elastic with a ruler.
- Discuss patterns – “Did you do a pattern?” “What’s your pattern?” (Note: Your child may decide not to do a pattern which is also fine. Encourage creativity and their own vision for the project.)
- Estimate how long or how many - “How many more beads until we are done?”
- Counting- “Let’s count the number of red beads we used.”
- Compare- “Let’s compare how long the elastic for the bracelet and the necklace are.”
Do you kids enjoy making jewelery? Share your experiences and ideas!
