How to Create a Kwanzaa Seven Principles Journal

African-Americans and others of African descent around the world celebrate Kwanzaa each year from December 26 to January 1. Kwanzaa promotes and emphasizes unity in the community and family. During Kwanzaa parents give children handmade or educational gifts called "zawadi." Personalized journals are a great way to help children celebrate and learn about the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa. Read on to learn how to create a Kwanzaa Seven Principles journal.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Green Construction Paper
• Gel Pens
• Solid Color Paper
• Lined or Unlined Bound Notebook or Book
• Red Construction Paper
• Raffia
• Scissors
• Kwanzaa or African Themed Scrapbook Paper
• Archival Quality Glue Stick or Tape
• Black Construction Paper
• Letter Stencils or Stickers

1. Cut shapes and symbols from the scrapbook paper that represent Kwanzaa or African heritage such as the African continent. Download Adinkra symbols and other African symbols used on kente to further personalize the journal.

2. Stencil and cut out "Kwanzaa" or a title of choice from the solid colored paper. Adhere the symbols and journal title to the front cover of the book creating a collage-effect.

3. Print the Nguzo Saba, Seven Principles, before writing the principles on the strips of paper. It can be found on the the official Kwanzaa website. During Kwanzaa, participants light a different colored candle for whatever principle corresponds to each night beginning with "Unity."

4. Write one Kwanzaa principle and the date it is celebrated on each of the 1-inch paper strips. Write the Swahili and/or English on the corresponding color for each principle. Write "Unity" in white ink on the black strip. Write "Self-determination," "Cooperative Economics" and "Creativity" on the red strips and "Purpose," "Collective Work and Responsibility" and "Faith" on the green strips.

5. Separate the journal pages into seven equal sections. Adhere a principle strip to the right side of the page of each section. Place the strips into the journal in chronological order beginning with "Unity."

6. Record a goal for the next year or an activity that demonstrates the principle of focus on each day of Kwanzaa. Include dates, photos, dinner recipes and family or community functions to make the journal personal and memorable. Refer to add the goals and mementos throughout the year.

7. Tie the journal closed with the raffia when not in use or complete for a decorative touch.

Tips & Warnings

• Download and print Kwanzaa and African symbols if none are available at a scrapbook or craft store.
• Add an African proverb that exemplifies the meaning of Kwanzaa or a principle on the cover or in the Seven Principles sections.
• Create a journal as a zawadi for someone in celebration of Kuumba, the principle for creativity.