Tired of making the same paper Lincoln every year? We’ve collected a group of fast, easy and fun ideas for your classroom’s Presidents’ Day celebration. Each idea not only incorporates a president or two, but some STEM, physical movement or art related learning as well.
How Many Pennies are in the Jar?
This is a game that allows kids to estimate and features one of our Presidents’ Day heroes, Abraham Lincoln. Complete a penny related craft before introducing the penny jar and then allow each student to use their best estimating skills to guess how many pennies are in the jar. Providing a scale and other measuring tools can convert this into a STEM critical thinking activity for older kids, who can weigh an empty jar and a single penny and determine just how many pennies you have saved.
Pretzel Log Cabins
Use pretzel logs for building a fun and easy snack that commemorates Presidents’ day. If your school is peanut friendly, then peanut butter makes an ideal mortar for building 3 dimensional pieces. If not, kids can nibble and stack their way to a log cabin during snack time and learn more about how Abraham Lincoln lived in his early years.
Cherry Tree Craft
Complete a cherry tree on paper or as a three dimensional piece to celebrate a story of George Washington. Combine the activity with a passage on the president’s childhood and early life. Then create a three dimensional tree craft made from recycled materials, or you can use construction paper and other supplies to craft 2 dimensional trees on the big day.
Who Am I?
Make a label or card for each president (or use a preprinted set). Tape the card to the back of each student and have them ask questions about themselves or have classmates offer key facts to identify who they are. Use only presidents you’ve studied for younger kids and the entire list for older ones, and offer a prize for those who can identify “themselves” the fastest.
How have you celebrated Presidents’ Day in your classroom? We’d love to hear from you!
[…] more fun Presidents’ Day ideas, check out our Classroom Connections blog for Lincoln and Washington-themed art projects and ideas for a patriotic class play that your students are sure to […]