Little Foot Doormat

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For families with 1- to 7-year-olds   These doormats are fun and usable. They will continually remind the person who receives one of the little feet that made it. A meaningful craft that can be given as a gift to mom, dad, aunts, uncles, or grandparents. Materials           * Carpet squares (with finished edges)     * Waterproof paint (one color for each child)     * Paper plates     * Small paint brushes     * Soap and water, paint smocks, protective        covering for floor, ribbon Hands-on Activity #1  Purchase inexpensive carpet squares at a department or carpet store. Ones with bound or finished edges will last longer. #2  Pour a small amount of each color on separate paper plate. Rotate the plate or spread the paint around with a small paint brush so that it covers the plate more evenly. #3  Assist each child in pressing one bare foot into the paint on the plate. Be sure to press down each toe so that they will be completely covered with paint.  #4  Lift the foot and help the child carefully step down on the doormat. Press the foot and toes down firmly without wiggling. #5  Pull the foot straight up so as not to smear the paint. #6  Wash each foot immediately in warm soapy water. #7  Write the child's name under the footprint or assist the child in writing his or her name with the paint brush. Repeat this process for each child. #8 Place the date either on the front or the back of the mat so that the recipient can remember when he or she received it. #9 Allow to dry. #10 Roll up the mat and wrap or tie with a ribbon.