Wish Jar Decorating and Filling

You will need

• PaperCut into strips about 2 inches wide and 8 inches long
• Washable markersOne set shared across the table, broad-tip preferred
• A jar or tall cupAny clean jar with a wide enough mouth to drop folded strips in
• ScissorsAdult uses these before the activity; keep away from children during the craft

  Cut all strips before children sit down so scissors are not in reach during the activity.

• Ribbon or stringoptionalTo tie around the jar at the end
• StickersoptionalStar or dot stickers for children who want to add decoration

Steps

1. 1

   Cut strips before they sit

   Cut one paper strip per child plus two or three extras before you call anyone to the table. Place the markers and the jar in the center. Put a strip in front of each seat so children can start immediately.

   Tip: Extras matter — some children will want a second try.

2. 2

   Explain the task simply

   Say: 'We are making wishes for the birthday child. Draw or write something that would make them really happy — a favorite animal, a place, anything you love.' Keep it open so no child feels they have the wrong answer.

   Tip: Saying 'draw or write' removes pressure from children who are not yet writing.

3. 3

   Sit alongside and draw too

   Make your own strip. This keeps the table calm and gives hesitant children something to watch. Narrate quietly what you are drawing without directing others toward the same idea.

   Tip: Your participation signals that this is a real activity, not waiting time.

4. 4

   Help with the accordion fold

   When a child finishes drawing, show them how to fold the strip back and forth like a fan. Most children this age need one demonstration and then can finish the fold themselves. Celebrate each one going into the jar.

   Tip: Let the child drop the strip in — that moment matters to them.

5. 5

   Close the jar together

   Once all strips are in, put the lid on. If you have ribbon, let each child hold a piece while you tie it. Tell them the birthday child will open it later and read every single one.

   Tip: Name who will open it and when — this gives the activity a clear, satisfying ending.

Take it to the table

Materials checklist, the steps and the variations on one Letter page.