Native American Cradleboard

"Long before Columbus set foot on land, Native Americans made and used cradleboards. Native Americans would carry babies long and short distances. And they could also be hung from hooks or a tree to keep babies safe and close while mom worked. This cradleboard can be made in 20 to 30 minutes. You will need: Corrugated cardboard Brown packing paper Brown paint Crayons or markers Twine Small beads The baby of your choice. To start, measure your intended doll. Again, you want the cardboard to be slightly taller and wider than the baby. Cut it flat along the bottom and sides and create a curved top. Next, cut a square of brown packing paper twice the height and width of the cardboard. In fact, this is going to be “hidden” to create the pocket for the baby. Encourage your child to ball it up and crinkle it as much as possible to age it. Then, open it and crinkle it again. Now it’s time to let your child decorate the hide with crayons or markers with symbols. The Native Americans often told stories with their artwork. Glue paper to cardboard. Flip over the cradleboard and glue on straps using twine for rope. Add a few beads to a length of twine for decoration and then glue to the cradleboard. Your cradleboard is ready for the baby of your choice. "

Primary TechniqueOther

Materials List

• Corrugated cardboard
• Brown packing paper
• Brown paint
• Crayons or markers
• Twine
• Small beads
• The baby of your choice