Summary: Paper bands are a slightly more advanced craft, but they are a great way for children in the classroom to bond with one another through teamwork and collaboration.

Materials:

• Colored paper or construction paper
• Some sort of adhesive for use with paper (glue, tape, etc.)
• Drawing and/or painting materials

Instructions:

1. Either before the crafting begins or when it begins, prepare 18 to 22 paper strips for each bracelet that are around 12 cm x 3 cm (size can vary as long as a 1:4 ratio is maintained)
2. Add color to paper strips if necessary or desired
3. Fold each strip in half so that the 12 cm or equivalent edge becomes 6 cm
4. Fold this edge in half again so that the 6 cm edge from the previous step becomes a 3 cm edge
5. Follow the folding instructions on this page
6. Decorate the exterior of the paper bands with paint, markers, and other drawing utensils

Debrief Questions:

• Was this activity challenging? How did the challenge bring us all together?
• If someone is struggling or going through a challenging time, what are ways in which we can help or assist them?
• Paper seems simple at first, but through folding and taping, the simple strips transformed into a paper band. Do challenges cause us to transform as individuals?
• What does folding and creating bonds with paper represent in our community? How can we create strong bonds with our peers around us?

Activity Length: Long (30 – 45 minutes)

Messiness Level: Moderately messy if paper strips are being prepared by students