Butterflies represent a lot of different things. They are symbols of hope, joy, beauty, and optimism but most importantly, butterflies are thought of as being messages from heaven. They appear as positive omens from angels above. These angels are supposedly loved ones who have passed sending messages of hope and resilience. The butterflies are thought to carry the soul and spirit of the deceased.
Play therapy is essential in child development. It supports creative thinking and through play, children are free to express themselves and let go of fear and anxiety. Play therapy encourages children to confront their emotions and express what they are feeling through play (Oaklander, 2000). This activity is meant to help grieving children confront their feelings through a creative outlet and to allow them a way of release.
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How to Make Your Suncatcher Butterfly:
Materials:
- Scissors
- Colorful Tissue Paper
- Glue
- (Optional) Exacto Knife
- Construction Paper
- Butterfly template (Click here for your template!)
- Printer
- Tape
Instructions:
- Print butterfly template on thick cardstock/construction paper
- Use an exacto knife or scissors to carefully cut out the shape of the butterfly. Cut inside of the butterfly as well as on the outside of the shape. You should be left with the butterfly shape with 2 large sections cut out on the inside (the wings).
- Begin to cut strips of tissue paper and lay the strips across your butterfly shape. The strips should be cut according to the length of the wing section being covered. There should be no gaps or tissue paper visible on the outside edge of the butterfly shape when it is flipped over.
- One you have your strips laid out accordingly, you can begin gluing individual strips on at a time. Place the glue on the outline of the butterfly and carefully glue one end of tissue paper from the midsection of the butterfly to the wing on the other side. Repeat this on both sides until your butterfly is fully covered.
- Once your glue has dried, flip your butterfly over to reveal your colorful masterpiece!
- Display your butterfly suncatcher by mounting it securely to a window. Use a small strip of tape to secure each wing to your window. Be careful not attach the tape to the tissue paper itself as it can easily rip the tissue paper!
- Strike a pose! Show off your butterfly design on social media using the hashtag #HOPEFORTHESEASON on your post. Make sure to tag New Hope for Kids on Instagram or Facebook!
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Reference: https://simplemomproject.com/butterfly-suncatcher/
Check out Children's Grief Awareness Day via New Hope for Kids' Social Media Pages!
