Materials Needed:
- Printouts of a leaf-less tree template (you can easily find these online or create your own).
- Tissue paper in various shades of pink.
- Glue or glue sticks.
- Scissors.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tree Templates:
- Print a simple tree template without leaves for each student. Make sure it’s large enough to allow for the addition of tissue paper flowers. (I did A3 for the early-years and primary school students and as a A5 card for Mother’s Day for upper-school students)
- Explain the Activity:
- Begin by discussing the arrival of spring in Japan, highlighting the cherry blossoms that bloom during this season. Emphasise the importance of cherry blossoms in Japanese culture, symbolising renewal and the fleeting nature of life.
- Tear and Scrunch Tissue Paper:
- Provide each student with various shades of pink tissue paper. Instruct them to tear small pieces and scrunch them up to create flower-like shapes.
- Attach Tissue Paper Flowers:
- Have students dip each piece of tissue paper in glue or use glue sticks to attach them to the branches of the tree. Encourage them to fill the entire tree with blossoms, creating a vibrant and colourful display.
This craft project not only introduces students to the beauty of spring and cherry blossoms but also provides an opportunity for creative expression and reflection on the significance of Mother’s Day.