Make a Beaded Necklace
Molly’s friends in Mentasta, Alaska, show her how to make beaded necklaces. They explain that beads, leather, and a bear claw represent their Alaska Native culture.
With your child, make a beaded necklace that represents your child’s culture or personal interests. To inspire ideas, ask your child questions about what they like and provide suggestions for what they can use as a special object. Does your child love trees? Help them tie a pinecone onto their necklace. Does your child love the beach? Help them add a shell. Is your child an artist? Suggest that they add a crayon. Encourage your child to embellish the necklace with something that represents who they are.
It’s important to follow directions. Remember — as Molly has learned — some things cannot be rushed, so remind your child to have patience. Gather the supplies and follow the steps for the best success!
Materials
Directions
First, cut a long piece of string for each of you. The string should be as long as your arm or leg.
Next, tie a knot at one end of the string to keep the beads from falling off!
Choose the beads you’d like to use. Add beads to the string. For an extra challenge, encourage your child to make a pattern.
In the center of your necklace, add your special object. You can also decorate a small piece of cardboard as your special object. Poke a hole in the cardboard and thread it on to your necklace.
Continue adding beads until you have the same number of beads as the other side.
When your necklace is full of beads, tie the two ends of the string together. Make sure the necklace fits over your head before you tie and trim the string!
Help your child make a necklace for someone they know or suggest that they write down the directions so their friends can make one, too!
Explore Further
With the extra beads and baubles, try making a suncatcher like Molly makes for her loved ones. Instead of using wire — as Molly does — find a stick or a pencil and tie pieces of string to it. Then add beads and other sparkly objects that you have on hand. Write down the directions so that your friends can make a suncatcher too. Don't forget to include a materials list and to number the steps in the directions.
Want more “Molly of Denali” activities? Check out the Make Spiced Oatmeal Muffins recipe and the Create a Yup’ik Dance Fan activity to continue the fun!
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Literacy
Math