Independence Day Bells

Celebrate your country's independence day! Young children delight in making these easy bell decorations with picnic supplies.

1. Foam drinking cups are shaped just like bells. What a great way to decorate for an Independence Day party! How is your country's holiday celebrated? Are there fireworks? A parade? Flags? Bells ringing? Picnics?
2. Turn two foam drinking cups upside down to make your bells. Draw patriotic pictures on the outside with Crayola® Washable Markers. Make your designs colorful!
3. Ask an adult to help you poke the end of a chenille stem through the bottom of one cup. Wrap a small piece of colorful plastic wrap around the end of the stem to make the bell's clanger. Use a drop of Crayola School Glue to hold it in place.
4. Poke the other end of the stem through the second cup. Make another clanger. Form a loop in the stem between the two cups to hang the bells. Dry.

"We'll make more of these bells at Christmas! My toddler is so pleased to be able to help decorate for holidays."
- Kelly S., mom of 3-year-old.

"This was a perfect activity for younger cousins at our family reunion. School-age kids helped younger ones."
- Urbie M., dad of 3- and 8-year olds.

The U.S. Declaration of Independence was voted on and enacted on July 2, 1776. What do you think happened at the Continental Congress on July 4?

Adult Assistance is required for this arts & crafts project.