Me Dolls: Mixed-Media Self-Portrait Doll

Infants build foundations through repetition and sensory exploration.

Objectives

Materials

Instructions

Materials

Fabric scraps in various colours and patterns

Yarn pieces for hair

Buttons or felt pieces for eyes

Small pom poms or felt circles for noses

Fabric glue (child-safe and non-toxic)

Child-safe scissors

Soft stuffing material

Baby-safe fabric marker or permanent marker

Picture frames or sturdy cardboard to display

Learning Objectives

Infants will explore different textures through touching and manipulating fabric and yarn.

Infants will begin to recognise their own image or the images of their family members.

Infants will develop fine motor skills by grasping and patting at the doll materials.

Infants will express joy and engagement when interacting with the doll representing them or their family.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather a variety of soft fabric scraps, yarn, buttons, and pom poms. Show these to the infants, letting them feel the textures. Talk about how these materials are like the clothes and hair they might see on their family members at home.

2. Select a base fabric for each doll. You can cut simple body shapes or have the infants "pat" a larger piece that you will later shape.

3. Offer fabric glue and let infants explore patting it onto the fabric base, under close supervision. Talk about how sticky glue helps things stay together, just like families do.

4. Introduce the yarn pieces for hair. Let the infants touch the yarn and help stick it onto the doll's head. You can say things like, "Look, this yarn is like Daddy's curly hair!"

5. Offer buttons and felt pieces for eyes and pom poms for noses. Guide their hands to pat these onto the doll's face.

6. Once the features are in place, add stuffing to make the doll soft and huggable, like a cozy blanket at home.

7. Allow infants to hold and explore their "Me Dolls." Encourage them to pat, hug, and babble at their creations.

8. Show the infants a mirror and then their doll, pointing out resemblances if any are apparent or simply celebrating the unique creation. Discuss how each doll is special, just like each person in their family.

Educator Tip

For this age group, our involvement is key. We are the "hands" for much of the gluing and cutting, while infants explore the textures and provide the "ideas" by reaching, patting, and vocalizing. Safety is paramount; ensure all materials are non-toxic and that infants are supervised closely to prevent choking hazards. You can also involve families by asking them to send a small scrap of fabric from home that represents their family.

Assessment

Observe the infants' engagement with the different materials. Note their willingness to touch, grasp, and pat the fabric, yarn, and facial features. Document their reactions to the completed doll, looking for signs of recognition or pleasure. You can also take photos of the infants interacting with their "Me Dolls" to share with families.

Educator tip

Keep stimulation low; follow infant cues.

Assessment

Observe and note: sustained engagement, sensory responses, early vocalisations, and attachment behaviours. Document using the Characteristics of Effective Learning framework (Playing and Exploring). Observe gaze, reach, calm engagement.

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