Yard art is a fun way to brighten up the bleary winter months. This activity can be done with natural materials and ice so you have no cleanup after the weather warms up. If you live in a warmer climate, don't worry - you can do this fun activity in your freezer for a temporary piece of art. The birds will appreciate the Smorgasbord too!
What You Need:
- Aluminum pie pan
- Water
- Cotton string, about 24 inches long
- Berries, sunflower seeds, evergreens, twigs and leaves rinsed clean
What You Do:
- Fill the aluminum pie pan with water.
- Make a loop of string and place it along the edges of the pan in the water leaving half of it out of the water.
- Help your child to arrange the berries, seeds, twigs and leaves in the pan of water. You can also add dried flowers and nuts if you like.
- Set the pie pan outside to freeze overnight (or in the freezer if it is not cold enough where you live).
- To remove the ice picture, set the bottom of the pan in warm water for a few seconds (20-30), and then remove it from the pan. Hang it outside on a branch near a window so you and your child can enjoy it!
Your ice art will last as long as the weather is below freezing. When it melts you will have a nice treat for the birds and animals.
While you are making this you should ask some questions about water. What will happen to it when it sits in the cold outside (or in the freezer)? Is it still water when it is solid? What will happen when it gets warm outside? Will it disappear or will it crack or drip away as water? This is a great time to make a hot beverages such as cocoa and warm up while introducing the concept of steam as another form of water, just like ice!
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