Origami - The Ancient Art of Paper Folding For Children!

ORIGAMI FOR KIDS!

When I was in the sixth grade, there was a girl from Japan in our class who was visiting her American cousins. Kyoko Miagawa spoke little English and was quite shy. Because of these blocks to communication, most of the kids avoided her. However, one day during art class, Kyoko showed us that she was quite fluent in a universal language. It turned out that this eleven-year-old girl was an expert in the ancient Japanese art of paper folding. Origami!

With the help of her cousin, Kyoko explained to us that in Japan, children learned Origami as early as kindergarten. Once a child learned a few of the simple basic folds, he or she would never run out of toys. With a little practice, even small children could create their own collection of fanciful figures such as goldfish, butterflies, children in kimonos, frogs, and flowers. Playtime In Japan often is devoted to the making of Origami figures, and then incorporating them in stories and plays.

Kyoko then taught the class how to fold a simple version of the classic Origami figure, the graceful flying Crane. This one has wings that flap when one pulls its tail! She patiently demonstrated each step, fold by fold. Soon there was a large flock in the room. She then showed us how to make a box, a boat, and an inflatable balloon!
I was fortunate to sit at the desk directly behind Kyoko's. Sometimes during recess, she would teach me some other more complicated figures. These included the original flying Crane and an octopus. The Origami I learned that semester has stayed with me to this day, forty-seven years later. I have shared the joy of folding with my children and my grandchildren. My grandson can make a man sitting on a rock from one piece of paper.

Here is how to get your child started in this wonderful art form