Learning Objectives

• Design and make simple paper flowers using safe tools.
• Use mixed media (paper + fabric + beads + natural leaves) in a creative way.
• Explore how simple technology (camera, drawing apps) can help plan or decorate your craft.
• Learn to reuse and recycle materials found at home or school.

Materials (easy to find in Kenya)

• Old colourful paper (magazines, scrap paper, newspaper, wrapping paper)
• Scissors (small, safe for children) and glue (white glue or glue stick)
• Green pipe cleaners, thin twigs, or wooden skewers for stems
• Beads, buttons or seeds for flower centres
• Optional: crepe paper, kitenge/fabric scraps, banana fibre or dried leaves
• Ruler, pencil, and a small tray to keep tiny items

Key Vocabulary

Petal — the coloured part of the flower. Stem — the long thin part that holds the flower. Centre (or stigma) — the middle of the flower. Mixed media — using more than one material. Recycle — to use old things again.

Simple Step-by-Step: Rolled Paper Flower

This is quick and safe for age 11. Use adult help for cutting if needed.

1. Cut a circle about 10–12 cm across from coloured paper (use a plate as a guide).
2. Draw a spiral from the outside edge to the middle like a snail shell.
3. Carefully cut along the spiral line to the centre.
4. Starting from the outside end, roll the spiral tightly toward the centre.
5. When you reach the centre, let it loosen slightly to form the petals, then glue the flat centre to a small disc or the base to hold shape.
6. Attach a stem: twist a pipe cleaner or stick to the base, or glue the flower onto a twig.
7. Add a bead or button at the centre for decoration.

Other Flower Types (ideas)

• Layered petals: cut several petal shapes and glue layers for a carnation look.
• Tissue/crepe paper pom-pom: fold paper like a fan, tie in the middle, then pull layers apart.
• Fabric + paper: use kitenge scraps for petals and paper for structure.
• Natural mix: add dried leaves or small twigs for a Kenyan, eco-friendly bouquet.

Mixed Media Ideas

• Glue beads, seeds (e.g., sunflower seeds) or buttons in the flower centre.
• Use recycled bottle caps or jute string for bases and holders.
• Create a wall art collage: arrange many paper flowers on cardboard or old wood.
• Combine paper flowers with painted backgrounds — paint a Mount Kenya or Nairobi skyline, then add flowers in front.

Technology Integration (simple and safe)

• Use a phone camera to take photos of your flowers. Make a digital gallery to share with family.
• Use a basic drawing app (KIDS Paint, MS Paint) to sketch flower designs before making them — plan colours and shapes.
• Make a short video showing steps (ask permission) and add a voice note to explain what you did.
• Use free online templates to print petal shapes — teacher or parent can help print safe sizes.

Class Activity (45–60 minutes)

1. Introduction (5 min): Show real flowers and pictures. Talk about petals and centres.
2. Demonstration (10 min): Teacher demonstrates the rolled flower method and a layered petal method.
3. Making time (25–30 min): Students make 1–2 flowers. Encourage using recycled materials.
4. Display and share (5–10 min): Put flowers on a board, take photos, each student explains one idea they used.

Assessment — Simple Questions

1. Name three materials you used to make your paper flower.
2. How did you change the colour or shape of a petal? (Explain one tool or technique.)
3. Give one way you reused something from home to make your flower.
4. How did you use technology with your craft? (Photo, drawing, video…)

Safety and Care

• Scissors should be used carefully — point down when walking, cut away from your body.
• Ask an adult for help with cutting or hot glue (if used).
• Keep small beads and seeds away from younger children (choking hazard).
• Clean up scraps to avoid littering — reuse or recycle leftover paper.

Local Connection & Creative Prompt

Make a paper flower bouquet inspired by something Kenyan: a favourite tree, a school uniform colour, or a national flower idea. Use local materials like kitenge fabrics or dried leaves and explain why you chose them.