Create a Pair of Summer Flip-Flops

What You Do:

1. Help your child cut one 22-inch by 22-inch bandana into 1-inch wide and 6-inches long strips. If you want a fuller look, use two bandanas. Choose two bandanas of the same color or two different colors. Brighter colors are more eye-catching and "wild" and will create that fun look your child will love. If you have scrap material, you can also use that to cut strips of material for your flip-flop project.
2. Show your child how to tie a knot around one strap of the flip-flop. Push the knotted piece of fabric as close as possible to the center part that goes between your child's toes, called the "thong" or the "peg."
3. Alternate tying strips on each side of the flip-flop, first on one strap and then the other. Continue tying pieces of fabric on each strap and pushing toward the center peg until all the strips of fabric are gone. It is okay if your child crosses one strap over another as this will achieve a fuller look.
4. Have your child try on her new flip-flops and check for any pieces that might drag the ground or trip your child. Once you've identified these, pull the flip-flops back off and snip these strands so they are a bit shorter. You can also snip a few strands and leave others longer for a truly wild and crazy look.
5. Want to add a little more bling? Choose material that has a bit of sparkle or have your daughter add gold and silver beads to a few of the strips of material. You could also allow your child to use craft glue to affix gemstones on some of the strands.

Did you know:

• Flip-flops have been around since Roman times
• President Obama is the first president to photographed wearing flip-flops
• Flip flops originated in Japan, and were originally named "zori"