Indian in the Cupboard Study Unit and Cupboard Craft for Kids

The children’s book The Indian in the Cupboard by Lynne Reid Banks follows the adventures of a young boy named Omri. In this story, Omri is given the gift of a small wooden cupboard as well as a tiny Native American figurine. When he puts the figurine in the cupboard, it magically comes to life and adventures ensue. When the Native American Little Bear is injured, Omri learns that not all toys are just play things and begins to grasp some important life lessons.

Indian in the Cupboard Study Unit and Cupboard Craft for Kids

If your children enjoy make believe and adventure, take a dive into The Indian in the Cupboard. Then, look below to see how to make your own Cupboard Craft for Kids based on the book and enjoy some other simple activities that can help kids understand the themes of the book further.

Indian in the Cupboard Craft for Kids:

Supplies needed:
– Brown and white craft paper
– Scissors
– Marker
– Craft glue

Directions:
1. To begin, you will create a paper cupboard that kids can actually open. Do to this, cut out two squares from the brown craft paper.

2. Place them side by side on the white craft paper. Glue just one side of each square so that the sides facing each other can be bent back like cupboard doors.
3. Cut out small tan ovals for cabinet handles, gluing them in place as shown.

4. You should now have a pair of doors that open and close.
5. Press the doors open and grab your marker. You will now write inside the cabinet one of your favorite quotes from the ebook. Look for one that evokes feelings of fantasy, magic, adventure, or even bravery.

6. Write the text inside of the cabinet. Close the doors back up.

This set of cupboard doors is a fun way to revisit your favorite quotes and themes of the text whenever you wish. Opening the cupboard doors and reading is a such an easy way to be transformed back to the text!

Once you have made your Indian in the Cupboard craft, you can also try these activities for enjoying and understanding the text further:

1. Think about why Little Bear is Omri’s favorite character. What is it about Little Bear that appeals to Omri? Make a list of reasons why Little Bear is one of the stars of the story and one of Omri’s most loved toys.

2. Identify the fantasy elements in the story. What makes this story one of fantasy? What things happen in the story that can’t happen in real life? Make a list of the reasons this is a fantasy tale.

3. Share your favorite toy. Tell others why this toy (like Little Bear is to Omri) your favorite of them all. Where did you get it? Why do you like it? How long have you had it? Present this toy to others with all the reasons why it is so special.

The Indian in the Cupboard is a wonderful escape and sure to get imaginations going. Share this text with your kids then give these Indian in the Cupboard lessons and craft a try.