Most years a pirate theme finds its way into our curriculum offerings. The theme involves action figures, boats, and lots of treasure, so what’s not to love? This year we included skull and crossbones art, which led to interesting discussions!
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What I like most of all about a pirate theme is the way it enhances children’s language. Near the beginning of the school year, dramatic pirate language (demonstrated in storybooks) helps draw children out of their shells as they practice it in pretend play. Later on, it presents opportunities to work on sounds children may still be having difficulty with (think letter R / “arrr”.)
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International Talk Like A Pirate Day
An International Talk Like A Pirate Day is held every year on September 19. Celebrating it in the classroom fits in well with the benefits of imitating pirate talk at the beginning of the school term (which is in September where I live.}
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The Skull And Crossbones Art Project
Near the end of my latest pirate theme, I offered a little skull and crossbones art activity. (A skull and crossbones symbol was one of the designs used on pirate ships.) Although the main goals were to discuss symmetry and practice scissor skills, the activity also inspired lively group conversation.
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Children cut out a skull and crossbones from a printable and then used felt markers to decorate it.
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My preschoolers loved the decorating phase. And they called their designs “creepy art.” That term (which rolled off their tongues numerous times) was the inspiration for drawing spiders and dripping blood. (There were a few hearts to soften the look.)
This led me to tell them that there is such a thing as creepy art and that it is perfectly legitimate. Skull and crossbones art fits the label, and some of it is even described as “gorgeous” and “pretty” online.
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Skull And Crossbones Printables
The simple pirate-themed art activity was so well-received that I thought it was worth sharing in a blog post. It’s easy to pull out on International Talk Like A Pirate Day, or any time of the year.
Here are two free printables to download so your little learners can make creepy art too.
This first printable can be cut out and decorated. Or you can skip the cutting phase.
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This printable is for individual or one classroom use only.
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The second printable is designed to be folded in half lengthwise and then cut. It’s a good activity to discuss symmetry.
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This printable is for individual or one classroom use only.
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The work of Salvador Dali is an example of exquisite creepy art. An artist theme on Dali would be a great follow-up to this skull and crossbones art activity.
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And for more pirate-themed fun, try this “Exploding Treasure Chests” science experiment by FUN-A-DAY.
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Related: Pirate Treasure Bin
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