POSSIBILITIES IN PASTEBOARD.
By Elizabeth Rosser
“WHAT can I do, mamma?” Who has not heard this question, over and over, on rainy days, when the children can not play outdoors; on snowy days, when it is snug and warm inside; and on hot days, when much exercise is out of the question? And how often have we been puzzled to supply work for the restless little fingers that will be busied at something, either innocent or mischievous! The much-despised pasteboard boxes may be made an important factor in answering the question. Pieces cut from them and neatly covered, will furnish good foundations for pin-balls, pen-wipers, needlebooks and photograph frames. Out squares of pasteboard; prick off evenly, in half or quarter inches, with an awl or large135darning needle; draw geometrical designs on them (you will be surprised to see what a variety you can make); give the children blunt needles and colored thread, and they will be delighted to sew the designs. Pieces can be cut in various shapes and sizes, covered with scraps of pretty cloth, and overhanded together to make little boxes, baskets, and trays. Mark off a large piece in inches; in each square print a letter, prick the outline, and let the baby follow it with needle and thread. He will learn the alphabet without knowing it. From an old catalogue or premium list cut a large assortment of familiar articles; mount them on pasteboard; mark the price on the back of each, and start the little folks to “store-keeping.” It will take some time, of course; but what is our time good for if it is n’t to train up these little ones God has trusted in our care? O mothers, it is such a joy to have them with us, to know they are not straying off into sin, that it is worth much planning to keep them occupied. The pleasure of making these articles will be doubled if they are made for gifts to others, and it is a good way to teach benevolence. For though the gifts are small, so are the givers, and their handiwork is beautiful in their eyes.