Olympic Torch Craft

Creating Olympic torches teaches symbolism while developing fine motor skills and creative expression.

Objectives

Materials

Instructions

Prepare for this activity by creating a sample Olympic torch to display—cover a paper towel tube with silver foil or tissue, and add yellow and orange tissue paper 'flames' emerging from the top. Gather photos of the real Olympic torch relay to share with children.

Begin with the story and symbolism of the Olympic torch: 'Every Olympics begins with something very special—a flame that travels from Greece, where the Olympics began long ago, all the way to the country hosting the Games. Runners carry a special torch and pass it from person to person, keeping the flame burning!'

Show images of torch bearers, the lighting ceremony, and the cauldron lighting at opening ceremonies. Discuss what the flame represents: 'The Olympic flame stands for peace and friendship between all countries. The runners pass it carefully because it's so important—it connects everyone through the Games!'

Introduce the craft project: 'Today you're going to make your own Olympic torch! Then we'll practise passing our torches like Olympic runners do!' Model each step clearly:

1. Wrap your paper towel tube with silver foil or tissue paper, tucking edges inside or securing with tape/glue.

2. Cut or tear strips of yellow and orange tissue paper for 'flames.'

3. Scrunch and glue the tissue paper into the top opening of the tube, letting it billow out like flickering fire.

4. Add any personal decorations or patterns to make your torch unique.

Circulate as children work, offering support with the wrapping and gluing steps. Celebrate each torch as it takes shape: 'Look at those flames! Your torch is ready for the relay!'

Once torches are complete, take children outdoors (weather permitting) for a relay experience. Demonstrate careful torch-passing, then line children up to practice. One by one, they 'run' a short distance and pass their torch to the next runner. Cheer for each participant as they complete their leg of the relay.

Close by displaying torches or sending them home with a note explaining the Olympic symbolism children learned.

Educator tip

Explain: 'The torch carries a flame from Greece to the host country, passed from runner to runner. It represents peace and friendship!' This gives meaning to the craft.

Assessment

Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Observe student's ability to listen and create their torch using different materials and following multiple steps.

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