Slap Bracelets

 

By: Izzy Ruiz

What this project is: 

Slap bracelets are a super fun and easy open-ended art activity where children decorate slap bracelets using stickers, markers, and more to express themselves through wearable art. 

What you’ll provide: 

  • Blank slap bracelet (look for vinyl, not silicone) 

  • Stickers (think variety: glittery, puffy, scratch-n-sniff, foam, googly eyes, gems) 

  • Washi tape 

  • Paint markers/sharpies  

 

How to set up the table: 

Organize and lay out your bracelets, stickers, washi tape, and markers so that your child can easily see everything. 

 

How to get started: 

Once your child picks their supplies, you’re ready to start decorating! It may take them a minute to figure out what they want to draw on their bracelet and how they want to arrange it, so brainstorming some ideas together is a great way for your child to practice collaborating creatively. If your child is unsure how they want to lay out their design, they can always sketch on designs with pencil before going straight to finalizing with markers. 

       Optional next step: Play some music! This can also help inspire and stimulate your child during the creative process. Maybe the bracelet is based off the song(s) chosen, or you and your child can simply draw with the flow of the music and see what comes out!                                                               

 

 

How to facilitate (without taking over): 

  •  We find that starting your own bracelet first helps give them ideas to start theirs. As you talk about what you’re trying, ask questions like “what happens if I try…” or “I wonder what this will look like when I put it on.” 

  • Try not to heavily suggest ideas and avoid taking over if your child experiences difficulties. Give them the time and space to try to work through problems themselves. 

 

Helpful reminders: 

  • The end goal should always be to have some fun while creating and experimenting. Encourage exploration, not perfection. 

  • Keep in mind that when the bracelets are slapped on, some of your child’s images may get hidden (along with the stickers if they chose to put any on).  

  • If working within a group, it’s important to communicate that we are slapping the bracelets on ourselves and to be mindful of others. 

  • If your child isn’t ready for paint markers or sharpies yet, you can use washable markers. However, their designs may wear off. 

 

Most important: 

These exercises are working toward improving your child’s self-guidance skills, meaning it's important to let them make mistakes and find their own special creative pathway. 

 
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