Upcycling Creativity: Explorers Children Transform Used Cardboard into Colorful Pencil Holders
Surabaya, May 3, 2026 — The spirit of learning once again filled the classroom of TK Tunas Mekar Jagir Wonokromo on this Sunday morning. Entering the third week of activities, the Explorers group was welcomed with a creative upcycling project, transforming used cardboard into functional and attractive pencil holders. This activity was part of an innovative learning program designed to foster environmental awareness, stimulate imagination, and develop children's fine motor skills from an early age.
The activity began with a solemn moment of praying together. The children sat neatly in a small circle alongside their teachers. With folded hands and closed eyes, they offered prayers before starting the day's activities. This practice is not merely a routine but serves as an important foundation for character development in early childhood. The teachers believe that encouraging children to pray and express gratitude before engaging in activities helps instill strong spiritual and moral values. The bright morning atmosphere in the classroom became even warmer through this meaningful moment of togetherness.
After the prayer session, it was time for the activity that most children had been eagerly anticipating: free drawing based on their imagination. The teachers distributed pieces of used cardboard that had been cut and prepared into small panels ready for decoration. The children enthusiastically picked up their crayons, colored markers, and pencils. There were no specific themes or patterns to follow, making the activity particularly special. Each child was free to express their own ideas and creativity. Some drew natural landscapes with mountains and rainbows, others illustrated their favorite superheroes, while some decorated their panels with colorful floral patterns. Their expressions showed deep concentration, as if every stroke carried a unique story they wished to share with the world.
Once the drawings were completed, the activity continued with a painting session. Using watercolor paints and small brushes prepared by the teachers, the children enthusiastically colored their cardboard creations. Bright colors such as red, yellow, blue, green, and purple blended together to create cheerful little masterpieces. The teachers patiently guided each child, demonstrating proper brush-holding techniques, color mixing methods, and ways to apply paint neatly and evenly. Some children who were more confident even experimented by mixing different colors to create new shades, often expressing their amazement at the results. Moments like these demonstrated how enjoyable learning experiences can inspire curiosity and encourage children to explore new ideas.
The final and most exciting stage of the day was assembling the decorated cardboard panels into complete pencil holders. With assistance from the teachers, the children carefully arranged and glued the cardboard pieces together using child-safe adhesive. This process required patience and precision, values intentionally incorporated into the activity. The children were thrilled as the cardboard pieces gradually transformed into sturdy and beautiful pencil holders. Many immediately placed their pencils and crayons inside their handmade creations, proudly showing off their work. Their broad smiles reflected a deep sense of accomplishment and satisfaction from creating something with their own hands.
Beyond the fun and excitement, this upcycling activity carried a deeper educational message. By using discarded cardboard as the primary material, children were introduced to the concepts of recycling and environmental conservation. They learned that objects often considered waste can still be transformed into useful and beautiful items through creativity and effort. This lesson is particularly important in preparing children to become environmentally responsible individuals in the future. Throughout the activity, the teachers shared simple messages about reducing waste, avoiding littering, and reusing materials whenever possible, using language that was easy for young learners to understand.
The children's response to the activity exceeded the teachers' expectations. Nearly all participants were actively engaged, enthusiastic, and determined to complete their projects. Some children even asked creative questions about making other items from cardboard, such as crayon holders or larger pencil organizers for use at home. These questions were encouraging indicators that the children's curiosity and creativity were developing positively. Several parents waiting outside the classroom watched with pride as their children confidently expressed themselves through their creations.
This upcycling creativity activity serves as a reminder that meaningful learning does not always require expensive materials or advanced technology. By utilizing simple resources available in the surrounding environment, the teachers of TK Tunas Mekar Jagir Wonokromo successfully created a rich, enjoyable, and value-filled learning experience. The third-week program further strengthened the school's mission of nurturing children who are creative, environmentally conscious, and confident in their abilities. Through the dedication and collaboration of the teaching team, every activity is thoughtfully designed to support the optimal growth and development of each child. More exciting and creative activities are eagerly anticipated in the coming weeks.
