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Kaleidoscope of Feelings

Suggested Group(s): Middle/Teens

Purpose: To explore and express feelings in order to be able to approach the pain of a death. To look at feelings with differing perspectives

Task/need: Approaching the pain of a loss, relating the loss to a context of meaning

Activity Setup Ideas:

  • Begin by discussing feelings, especially those that may be felt when someone in their family dies
  • Talk about a kaleidoscope, what it is and that they will be making one in group today
  • Have group members create a chart that will translate colors into feelings and have them choose paper or decorations for their can that says something about themselves or their loved one.

Materials:

  • Pringles can with lid
  • Scrap cardboard or heavy cardstock for templates
  • Clear mylar sheets (can use cut up plastic report covers, but unshrunk shrinkable plastic works better as it is thicker)
  • Decorative paper (12 x 12 scrapbook paper works well but could also use wrapping paper or plain colored paper and decorate)
  • Mirrored cardstock
  • Double sided tape or glue
  • Beads of different colors, shapes and sizes, sequins or other sparkly items, jewels, (separate beads, sequins, etc by color)
  • Something that will punch through the bottom of the can (can use a nail set)
  • Hammer
  • Clear packing tape

In preparation:

  • Clean the can of loose crumbs, and using a mild household cleaner, spray the can and wipe clean.
  • Using nail set and hammer punch a hole about the size of a dime in the bottom (metal end) of the can.
  • Cut a circle approximately 2 ¾" in diameter out of cardboard /cardstock to be used as a template.
  • Also make templates of a rectangle 8 ¾" x 12' for the can wrap (A) , and 8" x 8 ½" (B) & 8" x 2 3/8" (C) for the mirror assembly. Template D is ¾" x 12"

Making the Kaleidoscope:

  • Begin by choosing a piece of paper and using larger rectangle template (A) to cut to size. Using double-faced tape or glue attach to the can, wrapping straight and tightly. Set aside.
  • From the mirrored card stock using the smaller rectangle (B) trim the paper to the correct size.
  • Using template C, on the backside, (non shiny side) of the cardstock, score the paper (use a pencil, press hard enough to crease, but not hard enough to poke through) 3 times creating 3 equal size rectangles and one smaller one.
  • Fold this piece to create an equilateral triangle with a flap with the shiny side on the inside.
  • Use tape or glue on the flap to hold together. Insert triangle assembly inside the can until all the way touching bottom. There will be space left at the top.
  • Using circle template, cut at least 2 (depending on thickness) from the clear plastic and place on top of the mirror assembly.
  • Using template D, cut from paper used on the outside of the can or plain white paper, 2 strips. These are inserted on the perimeter of the can plain side out to hold the circles in place.
  • Fill the empty space with beads & things using colors based on the feelings chart previously created. Use a variety of colors for the best effect, but in different quantities and sizes to best reflect personal feelings.
  • Fill the space pretty full for maximum colors and design. Top with can lid, check for effect, and seal with packing tape.

Activity Wrap Up Ideas: discuss how colors relate to feelings, how something that creates beauty can be derived from feelings of anger, sadness, etc.

Suggestions: Middle kids will be able to handle most tasks, but circles should be precut for them. Teens may be able to function without most of the templates, except the circles.

This project will likely require more than one group night to fully introduce, discuss and process. Remember to focus on the process of exploring and discussing feelings rather than making a 'pretty' product.

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