Patriotic Party Decorations

Description

Here are a few toddler party ideas for decorations. We were unable to find gift wrap so we used gift bags found at the Dollar Tree which worked out fine. The paper was a little thicker and glossy which made these projects have a nice finished look. This is a purely decorative pinwheel to dress up a party table. Making one that works, requires using pins and dowels which I felt were best for older children.

Pinwheels for 4th of July Decorations

Materials

  • 3 different rolls of 4th of July wrapping paper. Printed or solid colors (red, white and blue) or three gift bags
  • Craft Glue
  • Clear Packing Tape
  • Stapler
  • Craft Stick
  • Button
  • Scissors
  • Ruler and Pencil
Patriotic Bags

Steps

  • Cut 2 different colors or prints 5 inches square.
  • Glue together and let dry. If you use a glue stick, put glue on both sides to be glued together for a stronger bond.
  • Fold in half diagonally, open and repeat folding in half on the other diagonal. Open and lay flat. See photo. I've drawn lines in black that are to be cut.
  • Cut three inches in from each corner towards the center.
  • Cut small pieces of clear packing tape ready to be used.
  • Fold every other point to the center and tape each one down.
  • Staple with a strong stapler to a craft stick. Make sure points of staple lie flat. Press flat if necessary and put a piece of clear tape over it.
  • Glue button in center of pinwheel.

Tips and Suggestions

While your child will not be able to do this activity without help, here are some things you can do to make this a fun learning activity.
  • Show your child the ruler and have them find the number 5. Tell them you are making a square that needs to be 5 inches on each side. If they are able, let them draw the line to make the squares while you help hold the ruler straight.
  • Show them how you are folding the paper in half by matching up the points of the paper. Ask what shape this makes.
  • Tell them you are going to fold every other tip and see if they can show you which one will be folded next. They can help put on the tape too.

    • Other Ideas

    Patriotic Cans

    Wash a empty can without sharp edges on the top and wrap with festive paper. Line with foil and use to hold treats.

    Drink Umbrellas

    Here is a simple party idea. Cut a circle 3 inches in diameter from wrapping paper and cut a slit to the center of the circle 1.5 inches. Overlap the cut ends and tape underneath to form a cone shape. Using a skewer, poke a small hole in the top and remove. Twist a coffee stir in to place. By using a coffee stir instead of skewer it can decorate a child's drink with parental monitoring. I bought a children's compass and we practiced making circles with it. I helped hold the point down while they turned the pencil.

    Educational Note

    In the United States Independence Day, often called the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Many people celebrate Independence Day by sending off fireworks, attending parades, having barbecues or holding picnics.