Our Bible school theme was based on Heifer Project, a program that provides animals, plants and water to countries in need who invite the program into their country. Part of the program is that after the animal reproduces, the first offspring is passed on to someone else. We developed four days of lessons on "God's Gift of..People, Animals, Land (Plants) and Generosity".
On the "Land" day, we made these baked clay necklaces. I preconditioned, rolled and cut Sculpey clay into rounds. I placed three rounds for each child on cheapie paper plates. This makes a good work surface and after they label them with their names, you can bake the clay right on the plate to keep everyone's project separate. You can also paint the necklace on them.Gently loosen clay with a knife soon after baking in case they stick. Follow the clay package baking and handling directions.
During class, we had a nature walk and collected leaves, acorns, etc. and used them to press into the clay. The back of a spoon is a great way to burnish leaves onto the surface of the clay. Be sure to poke a hanging hole in the top before baking them. As a punching tool, I like to use an empty pen canister that the ink parts have been taken out of.
After baking and cooling time, we painted each round with acrylic paint and wiped it off immediately with squeezed out wet paper towels, leaving some paint in the indentations left by the nature findings. Give each student pre-moistened paper towels and have a few larger wet rags in the middle of the table for them to wipe their hands on. This reduces mess and cuts down on bathroom trips to wash hands. Be aware: acrylic paint can be washed out of clothes when it is wet, but it will set when it dries.
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