Secret Message Mug

Kids love “secret messages”- why not incorporate this into a gift for someone special.  We chose to use binary code for a “tech dad”, but you could easily write a numerical message with 1 for A, 2 for B and so on.

Materials

• Light coloured mug
• Paint pen (meant for glass/ ceramics purchased at a craft store)
• Pencil
• Binary Code Alphabet http://www.convertbinary.com/alphabet.php
• Practice mug sheet mug_practice-sheet

Directions

• Print out the practice mug sheet.  Decide on what you want to write on the mug.  We selected the word, “Dad”.  Practise on the provided sheet writing out your “secret message”.

• Using a paint pen, write the code on your mug.  Be sure have your child add her/his name and the year to the bottom of the mug.  Follow the directions on the pen and the mug as per drying, setting the paint with heat and whether it then must be hand-washed.

• Want to make this a special gift?  Add a subscription for coffee or espresso to be delivered monthly to the special recipient.  Here’s an example:

http://www.transcendcoffee.ca/categories/coffee-subscriptions

• Another option is to make this a portrait mug- who doesn’t love a child’s illustration of dad?

Purpose

• Fine motor skills, beginning to understand information can be represented in a variety of ways.

Safety Notes

• Be sure to follow the directions on the paint pen and the chosen mug regarding application and washing.