Animal track mold craft is a great way to connect kids with nature and the plants they grow.

You’re visiting your garden every day, because you want to stay on top of new growth, new bugs, and unexpected visitors. Er, huh? Visitors?

Animals! From raccoons to rabbits, you never know what kind of critter has paid your outdoor garden a visit and now’s your chance to have some fun with it.

What you’ll need:

Small shovel or stick
Plaster of Paris
Animal Track

Gently brush away excess dirt and debris from inside your animal track. Do not remove anything that is compressed into the track. Form a wall in the dirt around the print. This will be what keeps your plaster in place, so build it close to your animal track.

Mix plaster according to instructions using a bowl or re-sealable plastic bag (about 1 part water: 2 parts plaster). It’s ready when it reaches the creamy consistency of pancake batter—but no lumps! When ready, pour plaster into track and smooth out within the area of your dirt walls. Work quickly! Plaster will begin to dry in about 6-10 minutes.

Allow your plaster to harden for about 20-30 minutes. Air temperature and humidity will vary this time. Once your cast has set, carve your initials and date into it! Next, using a small shovel or big stick, carefully loosen and remove the dirt from around the edges of your new plaster form until you can gently lift it from the ground. If it is too moist, give it more time to harden.

Animal track mold craft is always great fun!