How to Craft With Kids (Even if Youāre Not Artistically Inclined)
Even parents who donāt consider themselves the crafty types are now being forced to embrace their creative sides, as they work to find new engaging ways to entertain their children at home. Itās kind of an overwhelming thought for those of us whose heads are sent spinning at the mention of ādecoupageā or the sight of pom-poms and pipe cleaners.
Fortunately, even the least artistically inclined moms and dads can successfully lead their kids in craft project at homeā¦it just takes a few supplies and some pro tips! To help you get your at-home art projects started, we consulted the ultimate crafty momāErica Domesek, the creative mind behind DIY blog PS ā I Made This. According to her, all parents have what it takes to lead arts-and-crafts time. Ā
The first rule of thumb is that anyone can make things, Domesek stresses. āDo not forget that. Itās not so much about the final project (as much as we all love a feel-good finish), itās really about the process,ā she says. āUsing your hands and a little creativity is what itās all aboutāespecially now.āĀ
Here are some of her practical tipsā¦
Iāve never crafted beforeāwhere do I start?Ā
First, make sure that your arts-and-crafts area is covered. Use craft paper, wax paper, cardboard, deconstructed paper bags, or even a baking tray. āThis is not the time to ruin your dining room table!ā Domesek says.Ā
Next, choose a project that you feel confident doingā¦in other words, do not attempt to recreate the Mona Lisa with your toddler. āPick an easy project to start with, baby stepsā¦ literally,ā Domesek advises. āSee what materials you have at home and think ofāor Googleāways to craft with them.āĀ
Finally, consider getting the whole family involved! āDoing projects as a family is more funāit allows you to all enjoy some quality time without screens,ā she says.Ā
Which basic craft supplies should I keep on hand?
Here are the basics Domesek recommends keeping around the houseāthough she notes that your stash may look different, depending on the age of your child:
- Rolls of craft paper (white and/or brown)
- Washable markers
- Paper tapeĀ
- Pom-poms
- Crayons
- Paint and paintbrushes
- Pipe cleaners
- Construction paperĀ Ā
How much time should a project take?Ā
In contrast to our everyday lives, where it feels like weāre constantly in a hurry, Domesek suggests embracing a slow and steady approach to crafting. āWe all want to rush through life, but slowing down a little to do art is a beautiful way to entertain your children and also keep them learning,ā she says.Ā
Generally speaking, spending one solid hour of making is a massive win, she says. But, if you can create something for your kids that they can use to entertain themselves later, even better, she adds. āIf you are using elements such as paint, or glue, keep it mind it takes time for things to dry so you have to factor that in.ā
How do I know what projects are appropriate for which aged kids?Ā
Think your little one is too young to craft? Not so fast. While, yes, a 9-month-old cannot yet wield a glue stick, they can partake in creative activities. āAny child under 12 months old can get involved with art projects that focus on sensory takeaways,ā Domesek says.
āItās not about creating with them, itās more about the parent giving their little ones something to touch, grab, squeeze, and play with.ā She suggests DIY sensory shaving cream projects and colored gel bags.Ā
Once your tot is able to firmly grasp things, such as large washable markers or finger paint, youāll have even more options. āJust be careful of allowing children that are too young to use scissors, hot glue gunsāor basically anything that could result in a boo-boo,ā she says. āParents, use your discretion!āĀ
5 craft projects to get you started from PS ā I Made This:Ā
- DIY Karaoke Machine: Amp up your family sing-alongs with a mic and karaoke machineā¦made of entirely everyday materials!
- Cereal Box Puppet Theater: This DIY does double-duty: Itās craftingā¦and a show!
- Watercolor Coffee Filter Art: You need just three items to make these pretty art pieces.
- Scratch Art: Got crayons? Then you have most of what you need for this engaging project.
- Tie-Dye Eggs: Get ready for the big bunnyās visit with some stunningly decorated eggs (this project is probably better suited toward big kids with steadier hands).
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