For centuries, many cultures have released lanterns into the sky in celebration of hopes, wishes, and significant events. “In Thai culture, these lanterns are a symbol of problems and worries floating away” (Meaning & History of Sky Lanterns, 13 Jan. 2014). “This beautiful tradition illuminates the night, proving to everyone that light can always be found during dark times. Adopting a positive attitude during times of distress can have a meaningful impact on our health”( 10 Bright Lights That Will Bring You Joy, 2013). In the Spanish culture, paper lanterns are used in a different scenario with similar positive connotation. They are placed in front of churches during Christmas to welcome Christ child into the world, also a symbol of hope and peace for the Catholicism. Originating in China, the paper lanterns are distinguished by their airborne beauty when released into the night sky as a symbol of hope. There these lanterns symbolize sun and warmth during the Mid-Autumn festival when they celebrate the harvest and pray for a favorable weather after the Winter.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic has prevented Children’s Grief Awareness Day from gathering in person, we have created a virtual tutorial to make your paper decorative lantern to celebrate Children’s Grief Awareness Day and to release the lanterns together. Families can create their lanterns, hang them outdoors and observe the beauty and symbolism of hope in their own home. You can also share your lanterns with our community online using #hopefortheseason on Facebook or Instagram. Remember to tag New Hope for Kids!
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How to make your lantern:
Materials:
- Construction/Printer Paper
- Scissors
- Stapler
- Tape
- Small candle
Instructions:
- Step 1: Pick out your favorite color of paper and get all of your materials ready!
- Step 2: Hold your rectangular paper long ways and cut off a thin strip (1” width) off either sides of the paper. This piece will be the handle for your lantern. Place that piece somewhere safe while you create the rest of the lantern!
- Step 3: Take your paper and fold it in half (hot-dog style).
- Step 4: Take your paper and start cutting slits from the folded side about ¾ up the paper leaving a small amount of space at the top. (DO NOT CUT ALL THE WAY THROUGH)
- Step 5: Now unfold your paper so it’s back to the original piece.
- Turn your paper (hamburger style) and take the two ends and have them meet each other. This should create a tunnel with your paper.
- Step 6: Get your stapler and staple the two ends together on both sides. (You should still have a tunnel figure)
- Step 7: Place the lantern upright and grab your handle that we cut earlier! Create an upside-down U shape with the handle. Staple the handle to both sides at the top of the lantern.
Now that you have made your lantern…
- Step 8: Take a small candle and tape it to the bottom of your lantern.
- Light this candle during the ceremony as a way to remember your loved ones!
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Reference:
10 Bright Lights That Will Bring You Joy. (2013, September 26). Retrieved November 07, 2020, from https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sky-lantern-celebration_n_3956317
Check out Children's Grief Awareness Day via New Hope for Kids' Social Media Pages!
