In a string of paper people, each can be so much alike and so very different. What a great way to start a conversation about how we're all alike in some ways and different in some ways...and about appreciating how much more interesting the world is because of our differences.

Materials:

• Long pieces of heavy paper
• Scissors
• Crayons, markers
• Fabric Scraps
• Glue

Directions:

To make paper people, fold a long piece of construction paper a number of times. On the top section, have the children draw a person, with the arms reaching across to the end of the fold. Cut the pattern through all the sections, being careful not to cut through the folds.

Unfold the paper, and the children can see that the dolls look exactly alike. Then have the children decorate each one individually, using crayons or markers, fabric scraps, yarn, or construction paper. Encourage the children to make different hair and facial features, different clothes, and accessories such as eyeglasses, crutches and hearing aids. See how different the paper dolls look now -- yet they're all the same underneath.

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