Tissue paper flowers - if you can’t get marigold flowers in your area, make these paper ones and place them in vases on your altar. Papel picado - your child is sure to get their creative juices flowing by making these colorful tissue paper flags or “perforated paper.” Sugar skulls - a classic addition to a Día de los Muertos altar are these quintessentially Mexican sugar skulls. Place dried food, such as rice or beans, in the pot as an ofrenda to the deceased. Paint it with acrylic paint and then add it to your alter. Pinch pots - get some quick dry clay and form a small bowl or pinch pot. An excellent way to learn about the Day of the Dead tradition is to make some art to place on your altar. The idea is that on November 1st and 2nd, loved ones who have passed will return and those still living have a chance to celebrate the lives of their deceased loved ones. These items are called ofrendas, or offerings, to the dead. Gather pictures of loved ones, candles, flowers, and food, and place them on the altar. Ask your child for input on the design and placement of items on the altar. Put some boxes to create different levels on the altar. Place the table against a wall and cover it with a tablecloth or papel picado (colorful tissue paper cut into various shapes and designs).
Ask them to think of how they honored or celebrated the life of the person who died. Ask your child if they know anyone who has passed away. Pictures of loved ones who have passed awayĪ book on the Day of the Dead (see suggested list below)Īsk questions. What You Need: (Note: for some components of the art activities, you may need other materials.)