Origami is such a great challenge for school aged kids and these paper origami hearts can be easily added to a craftstick to make a fun bookmark – great as a Valentine’s Day craft for school kids…or just any day, really!
Origami is great for strengthening the essential, handwriting fine motor muscles of the fingers and hands, it requires children to concentrate closely and to follow a sequence of logical instructions. Plus it’s kind of addictive – you can’t just stop at one – our colourful school of origami fish is a case in point!
How to Fold a Paper Origami Heart
You will need:
- Origami or craft paper
- Scissors
- Paper glue
Instructions:
1. Start with a square piece of paper – 3in x 3 in/8cm x 8cm placed diagonally on the table top.
2. Fold the top point to the middle, crease and open again.
3. Fold the top point to the middle crease.
4. Fold the bottom point all the way to the top.
5. Fold the right side up diagonally so the bottom aligns with the middle of the heart.
6. Repeat for the left side.
7. Flip the heart over.
8. Make a small fold to each of the top points to flatten the top of the heart.
9. Make a small fold to each of the side points.
10. Glue these folds to secure. Flip over to see the completed paper origami heart.
Create a Paper Heart Bookmark
To use your completed origami heart to create a bookmark, you will need a craft stick, craft glue and marker pens (if you wish to colour the craft stick). Simply glue the heart to the tip of your decorated stick and your origami heart bookmark is done. Gift to a special friend this Valentine’s Day or any day!
More origami fun for kids:
Christie Burnett is an early childhood teacher, presenter, writer and the editor of Childhood 101. More importantly, she is a Mum who believes wholeheartedly in the value of children learning through play, the importance of quality early education, and the togetherness of family.
