Chinese Takeout Inspires Cute Craft for Kindergarteners to Make and Enjoy

So about a month ago, we were sitting there giggling over our fortunes after just having eaten a meal of Chinese food. Suddenly, I was hit with an idea. We had this can with a lid that I'd been saving in the cabinet. The can previously held coconut macaroons. It was the perfect size and shape for a fun and easy craft project with my little boy.

We turned the can into a "Fortune Picker," in just a few easy and kid-friendly steps.

What You'll Need:

One can with lid – coffee can size is good
2 pieces of construction paper
Safety scissors
Pen or pencil
Colored Markers
Tape or glue
More paper – any kind will work


Step 1. Make the sign. Get a piece of construction paper. On it, have the child write the words "CHOOSE YOUR FORTUNE" or whatever fun, fortune-related phrase you can think of. Let him or her draw a picture or decorate in some other way if they feel inspired.

Step 2. Size your can cover. Get a second sheet of construction paper. Take this one, and hold it up to the can so it wraps around (covering the product label), making sure the paper is lined up straight along the bottom edge of the can.

Step 3. Trace and cut. With a pen or pencil, have your child trace along the line where the paper meets the can. Be sure the line goes all the way around the can.

Step 4. Cover the can. Have your child cut the line that you previously traced. Take the paper that you just trimmed, and wrap around the can so that the entire label is covered. Tape or glue the paper to the can, along the vertical seam.

Step 5. Decorate the Can. Let your child write the same words, CHOOSE YOUR FORTUNE, on the outside of the can using the markers. He or she can pick whatever colors, or add stars, moon, or another fun design idea.

Step 6. Make fortunes. Take the other paper and cut strips from it. As many as you think will fit in the jar. For each strip, think of a fun fortune and write it on the paper. Fold in half and place in the decorated jar. Your fortunes can be funny, silly, inspiring or complementary. They should make the reader feel happy! Moms may want to take over, as this is potentially a lot of writing work for a young child.

Step 7. Have fun with it! When friends come over, ask if they would like to have their fortune told. Take out your Fortune Jar and Sign, and have them close their eyes and pick. They can even help by adding their own fortunes to the jar, and letting you take one!

Skills practiced:

Planning | Eye hand coordination | Handwriting | Fine motor | Cutting and Pasting | Writing | Creative play | Sharing

What's your idea for a great, kid-friendly craft? Leave a comment, get a link. 

xo,
Mom