Celebrating Kwanzaa

A Kwanzaa Game

To play this game, you'll first need a prop box. Paint or cover a shoe box with red or green paper. Decorate the sides of the box with symbols of Kwanzaa, such as pictures of fruit and corn from the harvest, the kinara (candle holder used during this holiday), and a mkeba (straw mat). Next, paint seven spring-type clothespins (three red, three green, and one black). These candles stand for the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa. During Kwanzaa, these candles are placed in the kinara. Young children love to place the clothespins on the side of the box as if they are placing the candles in the candleholder. Help your child develop his finger dexterity as he places the candles on and off.

Stuffed Bananas

One of the favorite African fruits is the banana. Help your children make these stuffed bananas and enjoy this delicious warm dessert!

Peel a banana and place it on a piece of wax paper. With a spoon or table knife, carve an opening along the top side (like a pocket) of the banana. Fill the pocket with chocolate chips and mini-marshmallows. Wrap wax paper around the banana and microwave it for about 30 seconds; long enough to melt the chocolate and marshmallows. (If you use a conventional oven, wrap the banana in tinfoil).

Holiday Wreath

Use your child's precious hands to make this keepsake wreath.

Cut a 12-inch circle out of heavy cardboard (a pizza box lid works well). Cut another three-inch circle in the center to complete the wreath (a craft knife makes the cuts easier than scissors, but should be done by an adult).