Crafts SEEM like a good idea when you’re in the throws of “****, what do we do next? We’ve played with every toy already!”… except when you realize you don’t have the paints required, or the paper or that special type of glue you’ll need. And who doesn’t immediately think of a mess when you hear the words “kids” and “art” together?! Well, art need not be messy nor prepared. Here are my 3 favorite go-to Craft Activities when I’m sick of saying “Let’s build something out of blocks again”:
1 – Recycle Box creations
2 – Musical Shakers
3 – Crazy Cuisine
RECYCLE BOX CREATIONS:
This idea is inspired by my 14 month’s old interest in our pet’s dog food. The closest distraction next to the bowl is that big blue recycle box brimming with fun containers for little hands. I’ve directed her towards this box of goodies so many times, I bring it out now as a fun alternative to her toys.
Simply let your child explore the contents of the box and together create some unusual creations while teaching him/her that one man’s junk is another kid’s treasure. Items which are the most fun include paper towel rolls, egg cartons and old cereal boxes. (For larger kids, let them dig through the newspaper/paper recycling and cut out pictures to paste onto their new creations)
Make sure any sharp aluminum can containers and glass materials are removed or they will be the first things picked up.
MUSICAL SHAKERS:
Just like the activity before, get out your to-be-recycled plastic bottles (water bottles work best or for some REAL fun, try a 2 liter). Run around the house to find miscellaneous items to fill your bottle halfway with (i.e. coins, buttons, paper clips, rice, the dog’s food). Once you’ve capped it off, shake it like there’s no tomorrow.
It’s more fun for the child to fill their own bottle, but little objects are often swallowed, so choose your contents carefully.
CRAZY CUISINE:
In a world where you’re learning limits and rules, kids love using their imagination … and the absurd. Here’s a way to get your kids thinking “out of the box” and having a blast while doing it. Start off by asking your child if they’d like to help you cook dinner. Once their on board, grab a large pot and a big wooden spoon and start searching around the house for things to put into your stew. Grab a toy, a book, a dog bone, the remote control… go crazy and stir it all up! Have your child create the menu with you by adding in some of their own ingredients. Once finished, dump the ingredients on a plate to be served up to papa when he returns home.
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