Related Show: Alma's Way
Make Alma’s No-Break, Pull-String Piñata
Pinatas are a way, way, way exciting part of many celebrations! As children swing a stick, they aim to break open the colorful container revealing the hidden treats inside. But seeing a torn, broken piñata may leave some children feeling sad or upset. When Alma notices her friend Beto doesn’t want to break open the special piñata his Abuelita made for him, Alma helps him think of an alternative to open it without damaging his precious gift.
You and your child can create an “Alma’s Way-”inspired no-break, pull-string piñata using household art materials and small treats. Reuse your colorful creation again and again at your next party, rainy day, or when you have leftover candy from a holiday or another occasion.
Materials
Directions
Close up all sides of the box with tape. Lay out a few sheets of tissue paper on top of each other. Cut roughly 2-inch wide slits into the tissue paper. No tissue paper? We gotta think about this… Ask your child what other materials you can use, such as craft construction paper, repurposed wrapping paper, or colorful magazine pages!
Tape or glue the tissue paper to the box, layering as you go. Let your child take the lead on decorating independently, or you can help guide them with a pattern of layered colors. For more ah-MAY-zing fun, add some extra decorations like pom-poms, feathers, or other craft items.
Once the box is decorated, trace and cut a three-sided trap door on the bottom of the box. If the cardboard box is thick, you may need to take the lead to cut the trap door.
Punch two holes into the top. If the cardboard box is thick, you may need to punch the holes. Thread a string or ribbon through the holes. It will be used to hang or hold the piñata.
Time to fill it up! Add small treats or prizes to the piñata. You might consider using individually wrapped snacks, small erasers, school supplies, or other non-breakable prizes.
Cut one string or ribbon piece for each participant. Then, select one string and tape it to the inside of the trap door. This will be the lucky string that opens the trap door when pulled! For the remaining strings, carefully place them inside the piñata without tape and close the trap door.
While the piñata is held by a grownup or hung on a nearby stand, each participant can take a turn pulling a string until the trap door opens and the treats sprinkle out!
Want more “Alma’s Way” activities? Make a memory box or paint a view from your window to continue the fun!
Author: 
Arts