Party Planners: Production Begins

On November 28, 2006, after much discussion, planning, and collaborative designing, the group finally moved into the atelier to work with Ms. Jordan and Ms. Leigh on the production of the pinata. The Party Planners first shared their unicorn design with Ms. Jordan by discussing shape, size, and other features that will make up the pinata. RB and EC then made a list of the different parts that will be needed to create the structure of the unicorn. The group decided that they will need five balloons for the body, neck, and head, and six toilet paper rolls for the feet and horn.

After gathering the needed materials, the group worked together to tape the balloons and rolls into place. Once the structure was formed, the real fun began.

Ms. Jordan explained the process of using ripped newspaper and wheat paste to cover their constructed shape. The group needed a few reminders on how to use "scissors fingers" to wipe off the excess paste on the newspaper, but quickly got the hang of it.

Tactile sensory experiences with water, sand, and papier-mache are great ways to motivate children's exploration and excite them with physical contact. Children learn best when they are able to use all or most of their senses to discover and create.

The Party Planners will continue to papier-mache at their next few meetings.

Production Continues

On November 30, 2006, the Party Planners met again to continue their work on the unicorn pinata. Well versed in the technique, the group jumped right in and began to again cover the unicorn with wheat-paste-soaked newspaper.

As the children worked, they began to incorporate their whole body into the experience. They were singing a number song that they had just made up and were stomping their feet to the beat.

After a while, the other children in the class began to express their interest in papier-mache. The Party Planners graciously accepted their help and also spent quite a bit of time teaching the other children the technique and process.

After the pinata is completely dry, the Party Planners will "decorate" their unicorn.

Posted on January 7, 2007 3:02 PM | Permalink