For an easier challenge: -Draw a circle or oval on their paper to give them an idea where different features are supposed to go.
For most children: -Encourage children to include facial features like ears, nose, and eyebrows
For a trickier challenge: -Have the children try drawing their entire bodies.
Follow-up Ideas
-Have the children cut out facial features from a magazine and glue them together. Ask the children what differences they see between the faces they found and their own faces.
-You can also cover the mirror in tin foil and have the children paint their faces on the mirror with paint and Q-tips.
-This Pre-K classroom chose to do this project in the beginning of the year. The teacher took their mirrors and put it on their cork board.
Originating Idea
When I was studying art at my college, I enjoyed drawing people's profiles. By having preschoolers practice looking at an image and copying on a piece of paper, the children not only practice drawing particular shapes, but utilize fine motor skills, dexterity, and hand-eye coordination.
How to Make It
You place a hand mirror at every table, along with a box of crayons and a piece of white paper.
How to Implement It
During circle time, ask the students, "What do you love about yourself?" The teacher listens to their answers, directing the conversation so that it's positive and loving. Then say, "Today I want you to take all those qualities and put that into a picture of yourself. Look at yourself in the mirror and draw yourself on the piece of paper."
Most children will make simple shapes, such as circles, squares, and squiggly lines. While earlier children will scribble and make simple lines on the paper, later children will make a simple drawing of their face. Make sure to ask all the children, "What makes you special?" and "What features of your face are your favorite?"
Once the children are done drawing, take their pictures and glue them to their mirrors. The teacher can take a pair of scissors and cut the picture to fit the mirror if need be. Then the children can put their mirrors in their cubbies and wash their hands for snack.