Wishing Stars Craft

Supplies

• Pre-cut star shapes (In this weeks planning bag)

• Colouring materials (felts, crayons, pastels, pencils)

• Glue sticks

• Scissors (if stars are not pre-cut)

• String or twine for hanging

• Hole punch

• Decorations: stickers, sequins, glitter glue, washi tape, foil bits, etc.

• Pegs, tape, or paperclips for hanging

Steps

1. Introduce the ActivityTalk with the children about Matariki and how Hiwa-i-te-Rangi is the star connected to dreams, wishes, and aspirations. Let them know they’ll be making their own wishing stars to add to a group display.

2. Decorate the Star

   • Each child gets one star shape.

   • Encourage them to decorate it beautifully using felts, crayons, glitter glue, stickers, etc.

   • Prompt them with ideas: "What colours feel magical to you?", "Can you add patterns or symbols that mean something to your family?"

3. Write Their Wish

   • On one side (or the back), each child writes a wish for the year ahead.

   • It could be something for themselves, their whānau, or the world.

   • For younger tamariki, have staff write their wish for them.

4. Punch a Hole

   • Help them punch a hole at the top of the star.

5. Attach for Hanging

   • Thread a short piece of string through the hole and tie a loop.

   • These will be hung from a longer string across the wall or classroom like bunting.

6. Hang the Stars

   • Create a "wishing line" across your room or hall using pegs, clips or tape to hang each star.

   • Stand back and admire the full constellation of hopes and dreams!

Other Information

• This makes a beautiful display for whānau to see at pick-up time.

• Optional: Add a printed banner above the display saying “Wishing Stars – Mānawatia a Matariki”.