DLTK's Crafts for Kids

laurel or olive leaf crownDLTK's Crafts for Kids
Laurel or Olive Leaf Crown

Contributed by Leanne Guenther

A simple construction paper crown the kids have fun making, decorating and wearing!  Perfect for children celebrating the olympics or learning about ancient Greece.  This craft can either be a laurel wreath (crown) or an olive wreath (crown).  They are commonly called "wreaths" but they're worn on top of the head like a crown.

Olive wreaths (crowns) were given to the winners of olympic games in ancient Greece and are associated with Hercules in Greek mythology.  They were originally made from a branch of the olive trees growing in Olympia (the place in Greece where the Olympics were held).  In Greek mythology, the wild olive trees in Olympia were planted by Hercules near the temple of his father Zeus.  And, yes, these are the trees that olives grow on!

Laurel wreaths (crowns) were given to scholars, poets and conquering heroes (like Julius Caesar) in ancient Greece.  They are associated with Apollo in Greek mythology.  Laurel wreaths are still given to some graduates of university.  The laurel wreath was made from laurel bushes.  Laurel leaves, also known as bay leaves, are nice smelling and can be used to flavour food (I use them in soup!)


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