Pasta is an inexpensive way to inspire creativity, imagination and learning in little ones. I bet you didn’t know you could get all of that out of a box of ziti. When pasta goes on sale for 99 cents a box buy it up for craft projects. Kids love to string pasta to make necklaces or bracelets. To add to the fun you can dye your pasta different colors. Once the pasta is dyed you can make colorful creations from necklaces to 3D artwork.
Pasta is also a fun item to use for sorting. You can have your child short by size and shape or by color or both. Challenge your child to make a pattern. As she masters simple patterns continue with more complex ones. In addition, you can use the pasta for counting, addition, or subtraction.
If you are using your pasta for craft time then gather yarn or ribbon and make necklaces or bracelets. You can also challenge your child to make a person, animal, or house with the pasta. You can make your pasta figure as a sculpture or simply glue on paper to make your image. Use your imagination!
Supplies:
Pasta in different shapes and sizes
Food Coloring
Rubbing Alcohol
Small Bowls
Spoon
Paper Plates/Wax Paper/Parchment Paper
Directions:
1: Carefully pour about ½ cup of rubbing alcohol in each bowl.
2: Add about 10 drops of food coloring to each bowl and stir slowly.
3: Place pasta in bowls and stir gently for a few seconds or so.
4: Remove pasta from bowls and let dry. Protect your counter by placing the pasta on wax paper, parchment paper or paper plates.
5: Allow pasta to dry completely before using. This may take several hours. You may want to color your pasta in the morning to prepare for an afternoon activity.