Build an imaginary world and create stories about how gnomes live.

For Ages: 4 and up

What You Need

Materials

• Craft glue
• Twigs, acorns, leaves, moss, pine cones and pebbles
• Buttons, cloth scraps and little shiny things
• Cardboard, paper plate or tray to use as a base

Bonus Ideas

• Use an empty jug or box as the frame of the home. Cut out doors and windows.
• Then glue materials to the frame.
• Use battery-operated tea lights as a campfire or fireplace
• Get outside – Build a gnome home in the crannies of a tree trunk

What You Do

Step 1. Lay out supplies
Step 2. Let your child choose materials
Step 3. Start building

What Kids Learn

• Creative thinking → Using materials in surprising ways
• Communication → Telling stories

Parent Tips

• Let your child be the architect
• Focus on the process of creating, not the final outcome
• Ask questions to spark storytelling (Example: “Where does the gnome eat breakfast?”)
• Guide your child as needed, but avoid taking over entirely