Me Dolls: Mixed-Media Self-Portrait Doll

Toddlers learn through action + language.

Objectives

Materials

Instructions

Materials

Large paper or cardstock

Child-safe scissors

Glue sticks

Variety of yarn scraps (different colours and textures)

Fabric scraps

Googly eyes

Colorful buttons

Markers

Crayons

Pre-cut simple body shapes for dolls (e.g., circles for heads, ovals for bodies)

Learning Objectives

Children will be able to identify and self-select various art materials to decorate their "me doll."

Children will demonstrate fine motor skill development by manipulating yarn, fabric scraps, and other small items to attach to their doll.

Children will express individuality by decorating their doll in a way that represents themselves or a family member.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather the children and introduce the activity: "Today, we are going to make special dolls that look like you or someone from your family!" Show them the pre-cut doll shapes.

2. Invite each child to choose a body shape for their doll. "Which body will be yours, or maybe Mommy's?"

3. Offer the children the yarn scraps. "Let's give our dolls hair! What colour hair does your doll have?" Help them unroll and snip pieces of yarn if needed.

4. Show the fabric scraps. "We can make clothes for our dolls too!" Encourage them to find a scrap they like and glue it onto the body.

5. Present the googly eyes and buttons. "Let's give our dolls eyes and maybe a nose!" Guide them in applying glue and sticking the items on.

6. Let children use markers or crayons to add details like a mouth or perhaps draw a special picture on their doll's clothes, thinking about what their family might wear.

7. Allow time for free exploration and creativity, letting each child decide how to finish their unique doll.

8. Once finished, invite children to share their dolls. "Tell me about your doll! Who does it look like?"

Educator Tip

This activity is wonderful for building self-esteem and celebrating the diversity within families. Provide a variety of materials to accommodate different sensory preferences and fine motor abilities. Ensure all materials are non-toxic and supervise closely to prevent choking hazards, especially with small items like buttons. Encourage children to name their dolls and discuss who they represent within their family.

Assessment

Observe children's engagement with the materials and their choices during the decorating process. Note their ability to manipulate the items and their willingness to express creativity. Look for instances where children attempt to make their doll resemble themselves or a family member, and listen to their descriptions and the language they use when talking about their creation and their family.

Educator tip

Use choice questions; keep groups small.

Assessment

Observe and note: emerging independence, two-word combinations, imitation of actions, and early pretend play. Use Development Matters non-statutory guidance checkpoints. Observe participation, labelling.

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