Miraculous Milagros

Design a good-luck charm as you craft silver-like jewelry. Remember—or hope for—something special in your life with these tiny cultural symbols.

• 1.

  Milagros are small, symbolic metal charms. The literal translation for <EM>milagro</EM> is <EM>miracle</EM>. Milagros are used in several cultures to ask or to give thanks for favors. The charms are usually shaped like an item or event. For instance, if you have a favorite pet, your milagro might be shaped like a dog or cat.

• 2.

  Other cultures use milagros as good-luck charms or jewelry. Some of the oldest charms have been found in Greece and Rome, where silver and gold were shaped into tiny masterpieces. Today, milagros are also treasured in the Hispanic Americas, as well as Mediterranean countries including Italy and Spain. Learn more about the religious and cultural customs associated with milagros.

• 3.

  To create your very own milagros, use Crayola Model Magic® to create a small shape that has a special meaning for you. Cover the Model Magic with aluminum foil. Glue the ends of the foil in place if necessary. Air-dry the glue.

• 4.

  Use Crayola Gel Markers to decorate your milagro. If you wish, glue on a pin back or clip so you can take your milagro with you.

Benefits

• Children learn about the Mediterranean and Hispanic American Catholic custom of offering milagro votives.
• Children examine the symbolism of milagros and trace their roots to ancient Greece and Rome.
• Children create their own unique milagros to symbolize a special wish or event.

Adaptations

• List several different milagro symbols and the ideas with which they are associated.
• Children with special needs may find it helpful to see pictures of milagros and talk about their wishes first.
• Research Latino tin crafts and create them.
• Assessment: Students write short stories or poems describing the symbolism of their milagros.