Paper May Baskets: Constructing and Joining DT Activity for May Day

The ancient tradition of leaving a May Basket for a neighbour is a wonderful way to teach empathy and community spirit. In this DT activity, Reception children practice rolling paper into cones and attaching handles, developing fine motor control and spatial awareness.

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Roll the Cone

Show the children how to take a rectangular piece of paper and gently roll it from one corner to form a cone shape. Can you make it look like an ice cream cone?

2. Secure the Shape

Use a piece of sticky tape to hold the cone together. This is a great opportunity for children to practice two-handed coordination to hold and stick.

3. Attach the Handle

Take a strip of card and tape it securely to opposite sides of the cone's opening to create a sturdy handle for carrying.

4. Make the Flowers

Scrunch up squares of tissue paper to look like spring blossoms, or head outside to pick a few wild daisies from the grass to drop inside the baskets.

5. Gift the Basket

Hang the baskets on the classroom door handle or surprise a member of school staff. Who should we give our beautiful spring basket to today?

Classroom Adaptations

Large class?

Pre-roll the cones for children who struggle, focusing their task on attaching the handle and decorating.

Limited resources?

Use recycled newspaper or old magazine pages instead of fresh card—it gives a lovely rustic look!

EAL learners?

Use clear, exaggerated hand gestures when demonstrating action words like 'roll', 'stick', and 'scrunch'.

High ability?

Encourage them to write a simple word or name for a friend or family member on a gift tag to attach to the basket.