What I like most about unschooling is that games and art activities like this melting crayons project can be lessons.
OG learns colors, shapes, animals, what melting and solidifying mean, what happens when colors are mixed together, etc. all while having fun with her mama!
When it comes to preschool and even kindergarten, I truly believe the best way to teach our kids is to let them learn through play. There is plenty of time for studying later, but for now I want OG to learn how to love learning. This activity helps her do that!
Melting crayons: How to make upcycled crayon animals
Supplies:
- Old crayon stubs (or new ones if you like)
- Silicone molds (we used these ones)
- A cookie sheet
- An oven
Directions for melting crayons:
Organize your crayon stubs by color.
Preheat oven to lowest temperature (usually 200 degrees F). Place the silicone molds onto a cookie sheet.
Have your child choose which colors to put into the molds. Talk about the colors he or she is choosing (and yes, you can make one too!)
Place the cookie sheet into the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, just until melted. You may need to add more crayon stubs as the crayons melt and create room.
Once the crayons have melted take out of the oven and let cool on the counter. When they are cool you can pop the new crayon animals out of the molds. Voila! Melted crayon art!
Your kiddos can use them as crayons but they may prefer to use them for imaginative play instead!
Using your homemade melted crayons
Though OG likes to use them as toys, your homemade crayons can also be used for crayon art projects.
Try using your new crayons to do crayon rubbing projects like this coin rubbing project or leaf rubbings.
Make crayon lanterns (the page is in German but you can get the idea from the images).
Make crayon etchings for decorations.
[…] have some planned activities (like this melted crayon activity) to expose OG to new ideas and concepts, we implement montessori style activities at home and […]