Preschoolers will love Hawaiian-themed crafts and activities.
Hawaii is associated with flowers, beaches, the ocean and grass skirts. If you're a preschool teacher planning a special Hawaiian-themed day for your students, or you simply want to decorate your classroom in a new way, there are many simple, appealing options. Have the children make traditional Hawaiian leis, try foods such as pineapple and ham and dress up in tropical clothing.
Decorations
Bring the look and feel of Hawaii to your preschool classroom with a wide variety of decorations. Hang tropical-colored paper streamers, such as orange, yellow and pale purple, and place unlit tiki torches, silk flowers, pineapples and coconuts around the room. Use beach towels as seats and purchase blow-up palm trees from a party supply store.
Clothing
If you're planning a Hawaiian-themed day for your preschoolers, encourage them to dress in tropical clothing for the special event. Purchase grass skirts from a dollar or specialty store and have the kids wear flower-print pants, shirts, skirts and dresses paired with sandals and sunglasses. Considering the age of the children, you will need to inform their parents of the Hawaiian day in order for them to be dressed appropriately.
Food
No preschool theme day is complete without an array of tasty snacks. Recruit a number of parents to assist with purchasing and preparing the treats. Set out trays of fresh pineapple chunks and other tropical fruit, such as mango and papaya, along with tropical juice and Hawaiian pizza, which is sure to be a hit. Consider including basic ham sandwiches for picky eaters. Don't forget to check with the preschoolers' parents about any allergies and dietary restrictions.
Activities
There are many Hawaiian-themed activities that preschoolers will enjoy. Have the children make their very own leis with paper flower cut-outs, string and fillers such as colored beads, macaroni pieces, pipe cleaners and straws. For children this young it is advisable to cut the flowers out ahead of time. You can also play Hawaiian music for the kids while they dance around in their tropical get-ups; if possible, provide Hawaiian instruments for them to explore, such as shakers, rattles, hand drums and ukuleles.
Tags: children make, dress tropical, dress tropical clothing, grass skirts, Have children