Materials
Modeling clay Rolling pin
Stapler Cardboard strips 1 1/2 " (3.75 cm) thick
Plaster of Paris Pencil, stick or small pieces of plastic straws
Brown or black shoe polish Small rags
Objects to print, such as ferns, shells, large plastic dinosaurs or animals with clear footprints
Instructions
1. Roll out modeling clay to make one slab per child.
2. Allow the children to press one selected object into the slab, then remove the object, leaving a print.
3. Staple the cardboard strips together to make rings (like headbands). Place the rings firmly around the print and push them into the clay.
4. Prepare the plaster and pour it into the molds. Make a hanging hole with a pencil or stick before the plaster dries fully. If pieces of straws are available, press them into the modeling clay before you pour the plaster. They may be removed after the plaster dries.
5. After an hour, remove the mold from the clay and the cardboard.
6. Let the children stain their fossils with shoe polish.Note: You could also use firm mud or firm ceramic clay.
