A Tall Tribute: Abraham Lincoln Hat and Beard Craft!
As we celebrate Presidents’ Day in February, it’s the perfect opportunity to introduce young learners to one of America’s most recognizable leaders. While we honor several great men, we specifically celebrate Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States of America. (Note: While often associated with the 17th President, Andrew Johnson, Lincoln led the nation through the Civil War as our 16th President!) Known for his kindness and his very tall “stovepipe” hat, “Honest Abe” is a favorite figure for kids to learn about.
This Abraham Lincoln Hat and Beard Craft is a fantastic hands-on way for children to transform into this historical hero using simple household items. By creating a wearable hat and a textured paper beard, kids can literally see history from a new perspective.
Why We Love This Presidential Craft:
History in Hand: Connects children to the story of the man who helped end slavery and preserve the Union.
February Fun: A perfect companion to a George Washington lesson for a complete Presidents’ Day unit.
Sensory Exploration: Crumpling tissue paper for the beard provides excellent fine motor practice.
Iconic Imagery: Teaches children to recognize the “stovepipe” hat, a symbol of Lincoln’s unique style.
What You’ll Need:
Gather these simple materials to start your presidential transformation:
The Hat Base: A sturdy white paper plate.
The Stovepipe: Black construction paper.
The Beard: Black tissue paper squares.
Tools: School glue and scissors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Build the Stovepipe:
Cut a large rectangle and a smaller strip from your black construction paper.
Glue or staple these pieces to the top of the paper plate ring to create the tall “stovepipe” shape.
2. Prepare the Hat Rim:
Take your white paper plate and carefully cut out the center circle. You will be using the outer ring as the base of the hat.
3. Texture the Beard:
Take your black tissue paper and tear or cut it into small squares.
Crumple the squares into small, textured balls.
4. Grow the Beard:
Apply glue around the bottom half of the paper plate ring.
Press the crumpled tissue paper onto the glue until the bottom of the plate is covered in a thick black beard.
5. Wear with Pride:
Once the glue is dry, slide the plate over the child’s head. The ring should rest on their head with the beard hanging under their chin!
Watch the full tutorial video here:
🌱 Learning Connections:
History: Talk about why Abraham Lincoln is on the penny and the five-dollar bill.
Character: Discuss the nickname “Honest Abe” and what it means to be a person of integrity.
Vocabulary: Introduce words like “Civil War,” “Stovepipe Hat,” and “Emancipation.”.
🌞 Final Thoughts
This Abraham Lincoln Hat and Beard Craft makes learning about our 16th President an active, memorable experience. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the values of leadership and honesty during the month of February.
Helping Children Thrive Miss Anna’s Class believes in learning through joyful, hands-on experiences. Our Video Course builds confidence and focuses on exciting science and phonics to launch reading, ensuring your child starts ahead of their peers and is guaranteed to be ready for school.
👉 Save this idea on Pinterest so you’ll have this iconic craft ready for Presidents’ Day!
NICE TO MEET YOU!
I’m AnnaJo Mason, and I love teaching! I used to be a kindergarten teacher, and now I teach pre-kindergarten and sell my accelerated reading course. I love helping parents achieve early literacy success, and I’m so glad you’re here.
Did your child make reading progress? Tag @missannasclassreads (or your social media handle) on Instagram so we can cheer you on!