Thanksgiving Activity- Native American Necklaces

This activity is probably better to do in two parts- one to dye the pasta, then another to string them.

Items needed:

Coffee can with lid, rubbing alcohol, food coloring, cookie sheet lined with paper towels, 1/2 c. measuring cup, slotted spoon or strainer, yarn and pasta. I chose Mezzi Rigatoni because they had a bigger hole and were shorter so they were easier for a toddler to hold.

First, pour 1/2 c. of rubbing alcohol into the coffee can. Add a few drops of your choice of food coloring. Add pasta. I kept pouring it until the pasta was just over the rubbing alcohol. Close lid, TIGHTLY and shake until coated. For darker colored pasta add more food coloring and let sit in the can for a few extra minutes.

Remove pasta from can with slotted spoon or pour into a strainer. Place on top of the paper towels and let dry. Because of the rubbing alcohol, the pasta will dry faster. Mine were dry in about 10 minutes.

Repeat with as many colors as you would like.

After the pasta is dry, you can start stringing it on. For younger kids, I like to add tape to the top of the string to make it easier to string it. Encourage your child to make a pattern for added learning! (I like to sneak the learning in.. they'll never know! lol)

When necklace is the desired lenght, tie ends together and cut excess string.

Ta Da!

Rainy Day Ideas- Dried Pastas & Rice

My 2 and a half year old daughter, S loves this fun rainy day activity!

All you need is a container, (I used a clear baking dish.) and a variety of dried pasta, rice and beans. Mix them all together and let your child have fun exploring the different textures. This has kept Sophia busy for up to 35-40 minutes... Quite the feat for a 2.5 year old!!!

Just use caution with children under 3 or those who still mouth items.