Keep in mind – I’m all about process rather than product. This fun afternoon project neither outlasted my six year old nor wrecked havoc on my living room. We learned a ton and have a renewed sense of appreciation for the art of animation. My motto remains: Grab hold of every opportunity you can to help your children experience and explore life around them.
Here’s how it all went down:
1. I found an old recording of my youngest son singing a song. Now six, this recording captures his sweet voice at four years old when he came home from preschool with a new tune to share.
2. The boys and I colored a background setting on a large piece of butcher paper.
3. Each of us worked to create the needed props. I was in charge of the main character. My six year-old created the flags. My eight year-old took charge of the pirate ship, leaves, door, etc…
4. My eldest son then set the items in place while I stood above and snapped a photo. After each shutter, he’d move everything to the next position and I’d capture another image.
5. My youngest generally danced around the room, singing at full volume and occasionally offering his excellent directing advice (“Put it there.” “No there.” “ Higher.” “Ok, now make it go upside down!”)
6. Once all the photos were captured – I dropped music and photos into Windows MovieMaker.
Here are the results: