August is approaching, which means we will soon be celebrating our national day. It is a pride for all Malaysians that we have been able to live harmoniously among the multicultural society for 66 years. Therefore, it is important for us to emphasize the significance of this historic day to the younger generation in order to ignite the spirit of independence and patriotism within their hearts. One suitable way for their age group is through art and craft activities related to Merdeka (Independence Day).
Parents or teachers can use these ideas for art activities with their little ones:
1. Jalur Gemilang Handprint: Besides drawing the Jalur Gemilang (Malaysian flag), you can try creating a handprint banner. Print a template provided and prepare suitable colored paints and cotton buds. Children can fill in the empty template by dotting the colors with cotton buds.
2. Merdeka Pinwheel: What’s great about this Merdeka pinwheel is that it requires no preparation. You can buy a DIY pinwheel set and the children just need to color it according to the theme before assembling it.
3. Merdeka Hat: Another easy craft for preschoolers is a national-themed hat. This hat, featuring a hibiscus flower, the Petronas Twin Towers, and the Jalur Gemilang, is sure to catch everyone’s attention and become a popular conversation topic.
4. Merdeka Ribbon: Children will look adorable wearing this ribbon! Although it may seem complicated at first glance, it is not that difficult to make if you follow the steps shown in the tutorial video carefully. It just takes some cutting and pasting.
5. Bunga Raya Bookmark: You can easily make a bookmark by “folding” paper. Then, attach a cutout of a bunga raya (hibiscus flower) on top. Alternatively, you can also paint a kite or a Rafflesia flower.
6. Merdeka Confetti: Children can release their own “fireworks” to celebrate the national day with homemade Merdeka confetti. With just toilet paper rolls, balloons, and paper scraps, this simple confetti can bring joy to both children and adults.
7. Jalur Gemilang Hand: The hand-shaped design is not only attractive but can also be used as a fan if children bring it to the national day parade on August 31.
8. Merdeka Flag Hair Bow: This preschool craft is easy to make and suitable for the national clothing theme. It only takes a few minutes to prepare and children can try it without any difficulty. If you want to enhance its appearance, you can attach a satin ribbon in the middle.
9. Merdeka Egg Doll: Want to create something even cuter? You can make a Merdeka-themed egg doll. Parents, teachers, or siblings can help clean the eggshells, while the children can draw and decorate the “hat” with Merdeka motifs, which will then be placed on top of the doll’s head.
10. Merdeka Butterfly: Girls will surely love this colorful butterfly design. This butterfly has two layers to create a more captivating 3D shape. Preschoolers can try this Merdeka craft with the help of their parents, who can draw the Jalur Gemilang pattern.
11. Merdeka Headband: Boys can style themselves by wearing a headband with a special design for this historic day. With just paper and a few folding techniques, you can easily create a cute little headband. Give the little one a chance to draw the Merdeka pattern on it.
12. National Day Bookmark: Unlike the bunga raya bookmark shown earlier, this bookmark is slightly more complicated and requires more effort to create. However, the end result is truly eye-catching. Adults can help with tasks such as drawing and cutting, while the little ones can decorate the bookmark with their imagination.
13. Jalur Gemilang Basket: If you have many empty plastic bottles at home, why not encourage the children to make a simple basket with a Merdeka theme? This preschool craft is not only useful for storing small items, but also allows you to recycle plastic bottles instead of throwing them away.
These Merdeka craft ideas will make this month more exciting for preschoolers. At the same time, they will learn about the history behind the Jalur Gemilang, bunga raya, and various other national symbols. It is undoubtedly one of the best ways to foster a deeper love for our homeland among Malaysian children.
