Fourth Grade Missions

One thing all 4th graders study in California is the history of the California Missions. This includes learning all about mission life for the people and their cultures, etc. We live close to 2 missions. And the kids in our town visit Mission San Luis Rey. This year I got to go as a volunteer with my daughter's class. It was so fun. Along with visiting the mission, the students are required to chose from a list of projects to do. We made a mud brick at home, a mobile depicting the mission life, and the ever popular mission model. It is a dreaded event for most parents. Because it is alot of work and alot of cutting with a sharp knife. And mostly because the actual project doesn't get started until the day before and then panic sets in that it wont dry in time.
I tried to have a great attitude about working on this project. It is the fourth mission I have helped construct and it will be my last. My daughter loved every minute of it. You can buy the kit and all the acessories at the craft store. It can easily cost $40-$50. But I chose to 'force' my kids to build it from what we have at home. Not just because of the cost but to encourage them to use their imaginations. They have all hear me say, "The stores didn't sell any of this stuff when I was in fourth grade. And I built it all from my imagination." (and my mom's creativity. haha)
My daughter was a little sad because she picked her mission because it was the only mission that had
5 bells on the front tower. I had to give in and buy the shiny bells for her but the rest she did herself.

My proud little girl

I love the bells too!