1. Start by learning about the real Declaration of Independence. (see under Links)
2. Make your own parchment (optional). Rip the edges off the paper, to make it look older. Crumple the paper into a tight ball. Unfold the paper and flatten onto a cookie sheet or plate. Pour coffee or tea over the paper. Swoosh around to cover everything. Let it sit for a few minutes, and then pour out the coffee/tea. Don't pick up the paper yet! Blow dry for about 5 minutes on high, then when it starts to lift up, then another 2 minutes on a low setting. After making this paper, my son said, "This is the paper they used back in 1999!"
3. Now for the fun part! Talk about the rules you have in your household. Then, let your kids come up with their own rules, or ways they wish they could be more independent from their parents (i.e. eat candy whenever they want, watch tv all day, etc.). Help them write it on the paper, or if they can write, let them do it. For extra fun, tie a feather to a pen or pencil, so it will be like they are writing with a quill.
4. After they write all their rules, as a fun incentive, let them pick 1-2 that they can do that day! (They might realize later why you have the rule...!) |