Supplies:

• Containers
• Elastic string
• Kid Scissors
• Beads (colors, letters, shapes)
• Charms (optional)

Prep/ Set Up Details:

• Organize all shared supplies in containers (e.g., beads, etc.)
• Pre-cut elastic string into 10” and 20” lengths (and pre-tie the first double-knot)
• Prepare a few relevant fun facts or questions to enrich the activity discussion:
  • Did you know that beads were once used as currency (like money) for trade?
  • We are using beads made of plastic, but beads can be made from many other materials like clay or glass
• Preparing for younger children(ages 3-6)
  • Be extra careful with small beads/ charms
• Preparing for older children(ages 7+)
  • Allow them to measure, cut, and knot the strings themselves

Counselor(s) Prep (30 minutes before)

Doors Open (5 minutes before)

Gather (right on time)

• When all children are seated, welcome everyone!
• Introduce yourself and any other Counselors assisting the activity
• Give children a brief overview of what to expect and show children a completed “demo” or what the final product of this craft can look like
• Briefly review the tools they’ll be using and highlight any tools/techniques that require either (1) special care or (2) direct Counselor intervention
  • For this activity, beads can be a choking hazard for small children. Counselors must be extra attentive.

Icebreaker (5 minutes)

• We’re going to play "Nice to Meet Ya!"
• Instruct all children and Counselors to sit in a circle
• Go around the circle having each participant tell everyone their name and about their favorite thing to wear (clothing, jewelry, hat, etc.)
• Counselors can go first to set an example for children 

Craft (25 minutes)

1. At one end of each pre-cut string, create a double knot, leaving a bit of slack at the end of the elastic
2. Thread beads onto your elastic
   • If using letter beads, you can spell out a word and place it near the center of your bead pattern
   • You can use a mix of beads in different colors, shapes, and designs
   • You can even add a charm or two to your jewelry
3. When your design is complete, tie another double knot, leaving a bit of slack
4. Tie the two ends together to finish your jewelry - you’re ready for the runway!

Play/ Perform (10 minutes)

• Play a game of "Name that Tune!" Instruct all children and Counselors to sit in a circle.
• Let children know you’ll be playing a short clip of a song and they’ll have to work together to figure out what it is.
• Once they guess it correctly, continue playing the song and encourage kids to dance along.
• For example, play:
  • "How Far I’ll Go" from Moana

Wrap-Up/ Goodbyes (5 minutes)

Reset/ Clean-Up (After - 10 minutes)