Magic Mats

This is an  art project that is both a craft and science lesson in one!

Materials:
 
Autumn leaves, colored construction paper(your choice), two small weights and sunshine

Instructions:

Take a nice hike with your children and pick out some fresh fallen leaves.
Place the leaves onto the colored paper.
Place a stone or some other weight  on top of the leaves to hold them in place.
Leave the paper with weighted leaves outdoors in direct sunlight for a several hours.
Remove the stones and leaves-  you and your child will see the leaf print that was left behind.

Continued: Part 2 & 3 Optional

Part 2: To spend more time on this project have your child add some coloring with crayons or markers, stickers, glitter and anything else your child wishes to use to decorate the project.

Part 3: Over the leaf- printed paper with clear contact paper or self
laminating to make a place mat. (GREAT GIIFT IDEA FOR THE GRANDPARENTS!)