These name wands are the perfect craft to build name recognition and develop threading skills!
If you are anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for engaging hands-on activities that take learning to the next level. Worksheets are great and all, but sometimes you just need something a little bit more tactile. Especially in the first few weeks of the school year.
And this name recognition activity fits the bill – for both homeschoolers and traditional schoolers.
In this craft, kids will build name recognition, letter identification skills, and boost fine motor development.
Then these darling wands can be repurposed as bookmarks or used as a tool in dramatic play.
Let’s bead our way to name recognition success, one letter at a time!
Supplies:
- 3 pipe cleaners
- Letter beads (it works best to have these in a wide dish)
- Length of ribbon, optional
- Slip of paper with the child’s name written upon it
Directions:
- Using a sheet of paper with your name written on it as a guide, gather the letters that compose your name from the dish of beads.
- Use your fingers to shape one of the pipe cleaners into a heart shape.
- Thread your letter beads onto the pipe cleaner heart to form your name.
- Twist the ends of the pipe cleaner together to secure the beads onto the heart shape.
- Twist the other two pipe cleaners together to form the handle of your wand. Then twist this handle around the base of the heart to complete your wand.
- For a bit of pizazz, tie a length of ribbon onto your wand. Enjoy!
Looking for another activity to build name recognition? Check out the dot painting name activity included in the “All About Me” activity pack. Whether you’re looking for something to supplement your preschool or homeschooling curriculum, or something to keep the kids entertained while you get breakfast on the table, this activity pack will not disappoint!
Searching for another wand craft? Check out this tutorial for Nature Wands. These nature wands are not only a fun craft to make, but are a great tool to encourage the most imaginative of play sessions.
Happy creating, friends!