Colorful Calm: Autumn Mandalas

Melyssa Sweet

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Colorful Calm: Autumn Mandalas

Mindfulness and artistic expression

In this lesson, students will create mandalas using fall leaves and other natural materials. This activity encourages mindfulness and artistic expression, fostering relaxation and a deeper connection to the seasonal changes. It helps students develop focus, creativity, and an appreciation for nature.

Audience

Grades 3-5 Elementary Students

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Mindfulness and artistic expression

Materials

Fall leaves, Natural materials (twigs, stones, etc.), Paper plates or cardboard circles, Glue, and Markers or colored pencils

Step 1

Introduction to Mandalas

5 minutes

Briefly explain what a mandala is and its significance in various cultures.
Show examples of mandalas and discuss their symmetrical patterns.
Explain how creating mandalas can be a form of mindfulness and relaxation.

Step 2

Gathering Materials

5 minutes

Take students outside to collect fall leaves and other natural materials.
Encourage them to find a variety of colors and textures.

Step 3

Creating Mandalas

15 minutes

Distribute paper plates or cardboard circles to each student.
Instruct students to arrange their collected materials in a symmetrical pattern on their base.
Use glue to secure the materials in place.
Allow students to use markers or colored pencils to add details or enhance their designs.

Step 4

Reflection and Sharing

5 minutes

Invite students to share their mandalas with the class.
Discuss how the activity made them feel and what they noticed about the materials they used.
Encourage students to reflect on the experience of creating something from nature.

Discussion

Mandala Reflection Discussion

A discussion to reflect on the experience of creating mandalas and the feelings it evoked.

What did you enjoy most about creating your mandala?

Encourage students to think about the creative process and the materials they used.

How did creating the mandala make you feel?

Guide students to express any feelings of calmness, focus, or connection to nature.

What did you learn about the materials you used?

Discuss the textures, colors, and patterns found in nature and how they contributed to the mandala.