If you are a 'pinner' on Pinterest, chances are that you may have come across some pretty creative ways in which to reuse Altoids mint tins. In the past, I have used them to make portable tic-tac-toe games and Lego building kits for my kids, and I've been thinking, "Why not use one to make a portable family tree?" So I did!
In addition to a clean, empty mint tin, I also used family photos and the mini double alligator clip connector pieces. I purchased them here at Amazon, but you also may be able to find them at craft or hobby stores. The connector pieces are two small alligator clips that are connected by a small ring in the center. They are about 2 1/2" in total length, and it's important that you get these small ones, because anything larger will not fit into the tin. Be sure to keep them away from any children who may still put things into their mouths, because I would consider them a choking hazard.
In addition to a clean, empty mint tin, I also used family photos and the mini double alligator clip connector pieces. I purchased them here at Amazon, but you also may be able to find them at craft or hobby stores. The connector pieces are two small alligator clips that are connected by a small ring in the center. They are about 2 1/2" in total length, and it's important that you get these small ones, because anything larger will not fit into the tin. Be sure to keep them away from any children who may still put things into their mouths, because I would consider them a choking hazard.
For the family member "cards," I created this template using Microsoft Publisher; when you cut out these cards along the black lines, they will fit exactly into the mint tin. If you click on the image, you can download a free PDF of the templates. OR, if it is easier for you to insert digital photos directly into the document before printing, I have included a link to download the Microsoft Publisher file itself.
Click on image to be directed to a downloadable FREE PDF.
| family_tree_in_a_tin.pub |
On the top line of each card, I wrote a relationship word. On the bottom two lines, I wrote each individual's name, using maiden names for the women. I printed the cards out on regular printer paper, and then laminated them. If you choose not to laminate, I recommend printing the cards out on a heavier cardstock for durability purposes. The alligator clips have a pretty firm grip, and using a heavier cardstock will definitely keep the cards from tearing. (If you do not have a laminator, most office supply stores will laminate for a small fee.)
To make a family tree from the child back to their great-grandparents, you will need 15 people cards and 14 clips. It sounds like a lot, but it all fits very well into the tin as you can see in the image below.
Also, included within the PDF and Publisher files are several options for a cover image for the tin. Simply cut out and glue your favorite to the front of the tin.
Here is a better close-up image of how we attached the alligator clips to each card and to each other. The clips are a little stiff to open and close right out of the package, but get a bit looser the more you play around with them. My five-year-old daughter was able to open and close them, but it definitely took some effort on her part, while my eight-year-old son found it pretty easy to do. These little clips are great for strengthening fine motor muscles and for practicing fine motor coordination. For younger children, I recommend making connector strips using self-adhesive Velcro dots, which would be much easier for small hands to manipulate.
And there you have it - an interactive, hands-on family tree that can fit in a pocket or purse! As always, this activity can be found on the Activities page of GrowingLittleLeaves.com
©2016 Emily Kowalski Schroeder
©2016 Emily Kowalski Schroeder
