Butterfly Wings Tissue Art
Infants learn through sensory exploration.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Summer Time
- Learning area: Nature
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Attend to seasonal visuals
- respond to sensory textures.
Instructions
Materials
- Clear contact paper or self-adhesive laminating sheets
- Assorted colours of lightweight tissue paper squares
- Masking tape
- A butterfly-shaped cardboard cutout with the centre removed
- A clean, flat surface or tray
- Soft music for sensory engagement
Learning Objectives
- Observe changes in light and colour through translucent materials.
- Develop fine motor skills by grasping and releasing paper scraps.
- Practise sensory exploration through varied textures.
- Engage in visual tracking of vibrant colours.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Secure a piece of contact paper to the table using masking tape, ensuring the sticky side faces upward.
2. Place the butterfly-shaped cardboard frame over the sticky surface to define the workspace.
3. Invite the infant to sit in a high chair or on your lap in front of the tray.
4. Demonstrate the activity by gently pressing a piece of tissue paper onto the sticky surface.
5. Encourage the infant to reach out and touch the adhesive surface to experience the texture.
6. Offer the infant small pieces of tissue paper one at a time to grasp.
7. Assist the infant in placing the paper onto the sticky frame, focusing on the process rather than the final aesthetic.
8. Narrate the colours and textures as the infant interacts with the materials.
9. Once the frame is filled, place a second sheet of contact paper over the top to seal the art.
10. Hang the finished butterfly in a window to allow sunlight to pass through the layered colours.
Educator Tip
Infants may be hesitant to touch the sticky surface. If an infant pulls away, place the tissue paper on their palm first and guide their hand toward the frame. This provides a bridge between the tactile sensation and the creative task.
Assessment
- Note if the infant reaches for the tissue paper or the sticky surface.
- Observe the infant tracking the movement of the paper as it is placed.
- Record the infant's reaction to the different textures and colours during the session.
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 visual tracking and sensory engagement.