Preview draft. Activities have not been tested with caregivers.
Celebrations · The activity desk
Decorate a Día de Muertos calavera
Draw and decorate a calavera while learning about Día de Muertos.
Let's play →
A little plan for play
Open interactive activity →Add to play journal →What you need
A full sheet of paper and large child-appropriate crayons
Age: 3–5 years; choose for the individual child.
Stay with the child throughout. Check the space and supplies, including anything within reach of younger siblings. Skip any activity that is unsuitable. Stop if a child puts non-food material in their mouth or becomes distressed. Use intact books, full sheets of paper, a large child-appropriate crayon and a clean, dry towel. Follow product labels; remove torn paper and keep broken crayons and caps away from children. Adult handles and stores supplies.
Set up: Draw a large rounded skull outline with a wide jaw and two eye shapes.
Adult's role: Explain that decorated skulls, or calaveras, are part of some Día de Muertos traditions that honor people who have died. Invite questions and respect the child's comfort.
Let's make it happen
- Add a nose and a row of teeth to the skull outline, with help if wanted.
- Decorate the face with dots, lines, flowers or patterns in colors you choose.
- Add a border and display your picture if your family wishes. Share what you learned about the celebration.
Make it simpler: Choose two colors and add large dots or flowers inside the outline.
Clean up: Put paper and crayons away.
Use intact crayons suitable for your child and stay nearby.