Fourth of July Crafts for Kids

The Yankee Doodle Bell game is a great Fourth of July activity. It's fun to dress up as a Yankee Doodle Dandy and to try your skill at ringing the bell -- basically, a bean-bag toss on "horseback." There's a little preparation before you can play, but the fun you'll have is worth it.

What You'll Need:

Paper bag

Old newspapers

Paints

Paintbrushes

Yarn

Scissors

Glue

Old broomstick

Tape

Construction paper

Bell with string attached

Beanbag

Make Yankee Doodle's pony (a hobby horse) by stuffing a paper bag with newspaper and painting on a face. Glue on yarn for the pony's mane, then tape the end of the bag around the broomstick.

Fold a piece of construction paper into a tri-cornered cap, and draw and cut out a feather to stick in it. Then take turns being Yankee Doodle Dandy by wearing the hat while you ride the pony.

Here's the game: Tie the bell to the limb of a tree. As Yankee Doodle Dandy rides by, she or he must try to ring the bell by tossing a bean bag at it without stopping.

Each Yankee Doodle Dandy gets three tries to ring the bell. Two points are awarded each time that anyone rings the bell. Whoever gets ten points first wins the game.

When you're ready for a sweet treat, make some Wiggle Stars earlier in the day. Learn how to make a yummy treat on the next page.

For more fun activities and crafts for kids, see: