International Women's Day is a global celebration for women's achievements in all fields. This day signifies the need to stand up for women's equality and has been observed for over a century, first being held in Denmark in the year of 1911. More than 1 million women and men attended the campaign rally that year to fight for women's right to work, vote, be trained, hold public office and end discrimination. Fast forward to 2021 and we see significant changes since then, but yet more work still needs to be done to address gender inequality. 
 
2021's campaign theme is #ChooseToChallenge, "A challenged world is an alert world...from challenge comes change". You can show support by taking a photo of yourself holding your hand high to commit to challenging the world around you by addressing inequalities you see to help foster a more inclusive world. Share your photo on social media and use the #ChooseToChallenge hashtag.  

Lacing Cardboard Hearts 

Today’s activity is all about the gift of giving using the materials around our homes. Teaching children about giving is a great way to encourage empathy and show compassion for others. This activity will strengthen their fine motor skills and is a great opportunity to share their hard work and love with others. 

What You will Need 

Process 

Engaging with Your Child 

This creative lacing activity will focus on strengthening a child’s fine motor and bilateral coordination skills that can help them become independent with feeding themselves, dressing up, tying their shoe laces, and even in their future writing skills. Invite your child by asking them “Let’s make a gift for someone special. Who do you want to make a gift for?”. Ask your child what shape they would like to cut out of the cardboard. If they are able to, allow them to cut the shape they want. Puncture holes large enough for them to be able to lace the string through and allow them to design their special gift however they like. They learn best through observing, so you can do it alongside them to show them how you do it. Your child may get frustrated when they can’t do it the first few times, but be patient and encourage them as they figure it out. You can help them out by holding the cardboard for them while they learn how to thread the string in the holes. Once their gift is complete, encourage them to share it with the person they intended to make it for. This will be a great opportunity for them to see how their work and thoughtfulness can put a smile on another person’s face. Enjoy the process and share the joy with others!