Cute Crafts: Alligators

Handprint alligator. Paint child's hand with green paint and make a print on one side of the paper. Let the child paint a body and teeth. Use sticker or googly eyes.

Letter A alligator. We use our Ellison die-cut to make letters, but you can print one out in Word and cut it out of green paper. Set out green and white paper for children to cut out triangles. Add a sticker or googly eye.

I presented an alligator and crocodile storytime about a month ago with these crafts. We read the following books:

The Wide-Mouthed Frog is probably one of my favorite books to share with a group. When I open up that page with the alligator mouth popping out, everyone in the room leans back. The little ones don't get the punch-line most of the time, but I like to think the parents explain it later.

I presented my version of "Five Little Monkeys Swinging in the Trees," which becomes five little froggies sticking to a tree. A co-worker said I should make a tree, so that is on my list of projects.

Finally, I shared the circular story of When the Elephant Walks. I love the end when the animals are all piled up. One day, we'll act this one out...

Come Together Kids is hosting a linky party for all things fun with children's books.