Crayon Melt
Years ago, when I taught at a preschool during their summer session, I was introduced to an activity that captured both my attention and that of the children. Using an old-fashioned hot plate, children were able to create artwork like I had never seen before. The process stimulated, not only visual senses, but touch and even smell, as well.
The most difficult part in preparing this activity is locating a hot plate. The ones I have found were purchased at garage sales and rummage sales.
After you round up a hot plate, all you need is a piece of paper, a few magnets, and crayons with the paper removed. Turn on the hot plate and use the magnets to hold the paper in place. The hot plate will get very warm, but usually not hot enough to burn. As long as you supervise your child and explain that the plate is hot, most children will be cautious not to touch the plate.
Allow your child to draw whatever she would like. Most kids simply enjoy the sensation of moving a melting crayon around the hot plate and create masterpieces composed of multicolor swirls. Ask your child to describe how it feels, looks, and smells. (I always describe the sensation as what it must be like to draw with a tube of lipstick!)
Be careful when removing papers. I use a spatula to get under the paper, and I wear hot pads to move the magnets which get very hot.
Before you clean up, be sure to try out the activity for yourself. You will understand your child’s fascination, and may even have fun creating some masterpieces of your own.
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Written by Laura on May 5, 2010
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