We all have the power to care for one another and our community. Paper cranes are simple objects that can help us show our care for others. This activity isn’t about making perfect paper cranes. It’s about using the time and attention required to make a paper crane to think about caring for other people. Making paper cranes creates space to focus on attention to detail, listening, and intention which are important to understanding care.

Instructions

1. GATHER YOUR MATERIALS

• Several sheets of square paper, any size works
• A tool with a hard edge, like a pen or spoon
• Something to write or draw with

2. SET YOUR INTENTION

An intention is the goal or purpose of your action. The intention of this activity is to show care for another person. How do you show care for someone you care about? What do you hope that person will feel? What wish would you like to send them? Write or draw your wish on your paper.

3. FOLD YOUR CRANE

Find illustrated step-by-step instructions at on SavingCranes.org. You can also follow along with Dutes’s video on this page.

While you fold:

• Repeat your intention. As you focus on the good wishes you have for someone, those feelings will become part of your paper crane. When you give that crane to another person, you’ll spread those good wishes to them.
• Be patient with yourself and don’t worry if your crane isn’t perfect.
• Folding paper cranes involves a lot of steps. Can you use the power of your care for your loved-one to get through your frustration? Do you ever do things you’re not very good at just to spend time with someone you care about?

4. SHARE YOUR CRANE

By folding a paper crane with intention, you’ve created a symbol of connection and care. You can use this crane to spread care to your loved ones or even to strangers. Give your paper crane to someone you care about or leave your crane where someone will find it as a surprise.