Activity: "Handy" Reminder

Help your child make a "handy" five-point reminder to encourage responsible behavior at home.

Materials:

• cardstock, heavy construction paper, or card board
• aluminum foil
• scissors
• liquid or stick glue
• writing tools: crayons, markers, or paint
• decorative items like glitter, sequins, or other small items.

Directions:
Begin by tracing your child's hand on cardstock, heavy construction paper, or cardboard. Cut out hand pattern and wrap each side of hand with foil. Decorate hand with glitter, sequins, or other small items. On a separate piece of paper that will fit inside the hand's palm, write 5 ways that your child wants to become more responsible. These five points will be represented by each one of the hand's five fingers. Suggestions: Pick up toys; Help pick up the family room; make bed; feed pet; use table manners; help in the kitchen; etc.

Talk about It: Ask your child to share ideas about why it's important for family members to be responsible at home. Then talk about ways that your child can be responsible in the car, family room, and play areas.

Take it Further: "Khamsa" means "five" (number) in Arabic. The khamsa, represented by a hand shape, is also an African symbol of good luck. This good luck symbol is often made from silver or other precious metals. Hold one of your child's hands (touching each finger as you speak) and list five characteristics that you love about him/her. Then take the other hand and repeat sharing ways that your child makes you proud and happy.

With a Group: Help each child make a hand using the directions above. Share with children that the hand symbol in Moroccan culture (North Africa) represents "good luck." After each child has made and decorated a hand, have children trade hands as a symbol and wish of good luck toward one another.