My First Mask

crayola supplies

Color Wonder™ Markers
Color Wonder™ Paper

household supplies

yarn
hole punch
paper towels
clear adhesive tape

Why

These Color Wonder™ masks surround kids' faces, but don't cover them. They're great for first-time mask makers and wearers.

Steps

1. Here's how to make a mask that's fun to make and wear. What animal or character would you like to be? A lion with a fluffy mane? Or Raggedy Ann or Andy with long red hair?
2. Carefully tear out the middle of a piece of Crayola Color Wonder paper. Make the hole large enough to fit all around your face.
3. Use Color Wonder markers to draw and color a face, hair, horns, or whatever you want on your mask.
4. Punch a hole on each side of your mask. Tie yarn into each hole. To put on the mask, ask an adult to secure the ends of the yarn with clear adhesive tape.

When & Where

"Toddlers can see and breathe with these masks, so they're happy to wear them. Excellent idea!"
- Kaj M., family child care provider.

"Children made masks for a Zoo Play. Animals of all kinds were roaming and roaring around the room!"
- Stella B., preschool art volunteer.

Interesting Info

Masking has been around for at least 20,000 years. Images painted on cave walls in southern France show human bodies with animal heads.

Safety Guidelines

Costumes & Masks— CAUTION: When children wear hand-crafted costumes and masks, make sure the crafts do not obstruct the child’s vision, hearing, or impede movement. Do not use feathers, fabric, or raffia on wearable costumes and masks because these items do not pass costume flammability tests. Wearable masks are those held in place on the face with elastic, yarn, or other materials. Keep away from open flames.

Adult Assistance is required for this arts & crafts project.

Color Wonder™—Wash hands well with soap and water after use.

String-Like Materials—Includes string, raffia, lacing, yarn, ribbon, and other similar material. Children 3 years and younger should not be given any string-like material that is longer than 12 inches. Close adult supervision is essential whenever children use string-like material. When crafts are to be worn around the necks of children 8 years and younger, attach the ends of the “string-like material” with clear adhesive tape, which allows easy release of the bond if the craft becomes entangled or caught on equipment. For children older than 8 years, the ends of the “string-like material” may be tied and knotted.