Appropriate age group(s):
Elementary School
Middle School

Time needed:
Weekend

Description:
This whimsical room is not only unique and fun, it also raises cultural awareness. A bistro table and chairs, an easel and prints of great French artists combine to create a room with function and flair. Other fun and unexpected touches include abbreviated awnings over the windows and window boxes on the inside of the windows!

Materials:
Black or antique white iron bed

Floral bedding

Bistro table and 2 chairs

Small square tablecloth in large blue check print

Artist easel

Beret

24x30 inch chalkboard

Prints by Van Gogh, Monet, Degas or other European masters

Small, simple wooden chair

Small tin vase

Artists' paintbrushes

Wooden window boxes to fit each window (will be used inside the room)

Abbreviated awning in wide stripe to fit over each window (these should stick out no more than 12 inches from the wall)

Ficus tree

Tiny white Christmas tree lights

Pots of flowers (geraniums are good)

Loaves of French bread

Shellac

Instructions:
1. Assemble iron bed and dress with floral bedding.

2. On wall opposite the bed, set up bistro table and chairs and cover with checked tablecloth.

3. Hang chalkboard on wall behind bistro table and write upcoming events in English, but write the dates in French!

4. Hang abbreviated awning over window, and attach window box at bottom of window. Fill box with pots of bright flowers like geraniums.

5. Put Ficus tree in one corner of the room and adorn with white Christmas lights.