This craft, simple enough even for children as young as three, uses a student's finger and finger prints to make designs. Make the trunk by rubbing the side of the child's pinky finger in washable brown ink or paint. Stamp this on the paper. Next, use green washable ink or paint and stamp the child's index finger all on top of the trunk to make leaves. Reapply ink to the child's finger as needed. Use yellow, gold or orange for all trees. Stamp some spots more lightly than others for variation. Use your pinky dipped in washable red ink or paint to make the apples.
Cover the work area with newspaper or towels. You can also have children work on cookie sheets. Cut halves or slices of apples. Use a sponge or paintbrush to apply paint or washable ink so the fruit doesn't get too drenched. Use colors like red, green and yellow. Stamp designs onto newsprint or construction paper. Later, children can fill in the "seeds" with a black marker.
Children usually like apples and apple-flavored items. When using peanut butter in a classroom, check for any allergies children may have. Children can assemble an "apple smile" snack using wedge of apples with peanut butter dabbed across the top. Add a three or four miniature marshmallows to form the "smile." Easy apple recipes include cake, muffins and bread. For younger students, teachers can use a cake mix or combine their own dry ingredients. Children can help add liquids, then bake and enjoy.
Students can make a Johnny Appleseed figure by decorating a toilet paper roll. They will need copies of the template in addition to on-hand supplies, such as paper, glue, scissors and crayons or markers. Print, color and cut out template. Cover the toilet paper roll with construction paper or template. Next, adhere the arms and head. Use the tabs on the feet for a dimensional effect. Finally, adhere the walking stick.