Spring is a great time to talk to your kids about
snakes, both as a learning opportunity and a
warning. Depending on where you live, look
up information on the types of snakes in your
area in the library. Be sure to find pictures of
the poisonous ones, if you have any nearby.
First look over the books and talk about the
importance of walking away from the snakes and
not bothering them. Instruct your kids to find an
adult immediately if someone is bit. After this
"serious" talk you can then get out the supplies
to make their own "slippery snake". The fun activity
will help them to remember what you taught them.
You will need:
6 toilet paper rolls per snake
yarn
wiggly eyes or markers
tape
water color, washable paint in the colors of the snake
red paper or felt for the tongue.
Paint each roll the main color of the snake you looked at
in the pictures, then have the child paint the same designs
as the snake has on his rolls. Thread the rolls onto a piece
of yarn, then tape the yarn to the front roll and back roll.
On the first roll either glue wiggly eyes or draw on with a marker.
Cut your red paper into a little "forked" tongue and glue on
the bottom edge of the roll.
This fun lesson will teach your children about snakes, but in
a positive way that they will remember throughout the year.
About the Author:
Brenda Hyde is Mom to three little ones, a freelance writer
and editor here at OldFashionedLiving.
RECOMMENDED BOOKS
DK Readers: Slinky, Scaly Snakes: This is a Level 2: Beginning to Read Alone book that
tells about snakes and their habits. A great starter book.
Can Snakes Crawl Backward?:
Questions and Answers about Reptiles. Over 75 questions, with the more difficult words sounded out. Fun, but full of facts!
