Let's make it
Instructions.
- 1
Download and print the pirate ship template in the full-color or printer-friendly version.
- 2
Tear tissue paper into small pieces.
- 3
Roll or crumple each piece between your fingers.
- 4
Add glue to one section of the pirate ship at a time.
- 5
Press the tissue paper pieces onto the printable and continue until the ship is as full and colorful as your child wants.
- 6
Let the finished craft dry flat before displaying it.
Safety tip
- Adult supervision is recommended, especially for younger children who may put small craft materials in their mouths.
- Use child-safe, non-toxic glue. Keep loose materials away from babies and children who still mouth objects.
- Use scissors only when appropriate for your child and with adult supervision.
From an OT lens
Tearing and crumpling tissue paper activates the small muscles in the hands. Using both hands to hold and tear paper supports bilateral coordination, while picking up and placing small pieces encourages pincer grasp, visual-motor skills, and motor planning through the sequence: tear, roll, glue, place.
Make it easier or add a challenge
For younger children, pre-tear larger pieces, focus on crumpling and gluing, or work on one section at a time. Older children can make patterned sails, cover portholes, count pieces, cut some pieces with scissors, or design their own pirate flag.
Add pirate pretend play
Invite your child to name the pirate ship and tell a story about where it is sailing, what treasure the crew is seeking, and who the captain might be.
