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In the Kwanzaa celebration the mat also known as the Mkeka is used as the foundation to build their Kwanzaa traditions. This mat symbolizes the traditions and history of African Americans. No Kwanzaa is complete without it. You may have children who want to set up their own Kwanzaa area of symbolization. To begin this they must start with the Kwanzaa mat. It’s fairly easy to make and will help your children begin to realize their heritage.

What You’ll Need

* Yellow, black, green and red construction paper
* Glue
* Scissors

Instructions

Start with the yellow piece of construction paper as the base of the mat. Measure one inch on all sides of the construction paper. Carefully cut strips one inch in length and one inch apart from side to side and top to bottom of the construction paper.

Next cut the black, green and red construction paper into one-inch wide strips. There will be used to weave in and out of the mat. Black, green and red are the Kwanzaa colors and stand for people, struggle and future. It is important to have these colors in the mat to stay with the Kwanzaa tradition.

Starting with a black strip weave it in and out of the slits on the yellow construction paper. Continue with this with the red and green strips alternating colors as you go. Once you have all the strips weaved through your mat use the glue to tack them down on each end.

This mat is very important in the Kwanzaa celebration. Now your child can make their own mat to start there own symbolization of Kwanzaa and the believes it stands for.

Submitted by Christmas Fun

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