The Pre-School Craft Book: Activities for the 2 to 5’s in Kindergartens, Groups, Nursery Schools, and at Home

Susan Anderson was a librarian with the Calgary Public Library.

These 83 craft projects can be done on a one-to-one basis, at home, although they are primarily intended to be used in a school or group situation. The author has attempted to use basic materials and to keep preparation time minimal. Her philosophy is that children want an immediate result, and one of her criteria is that each craft item should be an extension or prop in everyday play. Under general headings such as Hats, Puppets, Flowers, Toys and Games, instructions are provided for each individual project, along with a list of materials and a diagram.

Ever-present are such standards as egg carton caterpillars and Cheerio necklaces, but it is a treat to find some unique ideas, and variations on old standbys (cooking the noodles in coloured water before using them in a collage, for example). Pomanders, flags, and a non-flying kite are sure to be popular. In addition to an index, a materials list is included, so that a project can be chosen after looking around the house to see what is on hand.

This will be a valuable title for anyone looking for new craft ideas. My only quibble is with the intended age range. In fact, two-year-olds are not really concerned with final results but are more interested in the process of creating. Many of these endeavours will be too structured for them.