Introduce your students to the Maneki-Neko, Japan's iconic "beckoning cat," with this engaging printable activity! This cherished symbol of good fortune will inspire creativity in your classroom.
In this activity, students will learn about the history and meaning of the Maneki-Neko while designing and colouring their own versions. Get ready to spark curiosity and creativity as your students explore this symbol of luck and prosperity!
Let's get started!
Printable & Activity Objectives
💡
Age: 7 to 9 year olds, Activity Time: 1-2 hours, Items Needed: Writing and Colouring pencils, Scissors and Glue sticks
In this creative printable activity, your students will design and colour their own icon of Japan, the Maneki-Neko and complete a word cloud to learn about its cultural significance.
It will help your child or student:
Encourages Cultural Awareness: Students gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture by learning about the history and symbolism of the Maneki-Neko, promoting respect and curiosity for global traditions.
Boosts Creativity: By designing and colouring their own Maneki-Neko, students enhance their creative thinking and artistic skills, allowing them to express individuality while connecting with the cultural theme of the activity.
Promotes Classroom Discussion and Collaboration: The activity can initiate discussions about luck and symbols from various cultures, encouraging students to share their ideas and learn from each other.
Let's go!
Classroom Resources
Simple steps to start:
Research and find out more about the history of the Maneki-Neko. Here's an interesting video about the origins of the Japanese "Beckoning" cat (Note: There is a long sponsorship message at the beginning of the video):
Get started on the printable worksheets!
Share this Teaching Resource
What's in the Printable Worksheet Pack
This printable activity pack consists of 2 creative printable worksheets. Here's what it consists of:
1 Printable Maneki-Neko Design and Colouring Sheet
1 Printable Maneki-Neko World Cloud and Discussion Sheet
Get the Complete Bundle Best value for classrooms & families
BUY BUNDLE PRINTABLE PACK (PDF ONLY)
Discover Japan Creatively: Creative Printable Bundle (PDF ONLY)
Purchase this activity printable bundle pack
Pack includes:
One-Pager: Japan (2 pages)
Colours of Japanese Koinobori (2 pages)
Let's Create Sushi (2 pages)
Bonsai: The Art of Patience (3 pages)
A Day in the Life of: a Sumo Wrestler (2 pages)
Colours of Koi (2 pages)
Murakami Inspired Flower Arrangement (2 pages)
Create A Perfect Lunch Bento Box (1 page)
My Japanese Concert Fan (2 pages)
Bushido: Learning Virtues the Samurai Way (2 pages)
