Educating Our Children | Summer Crafts for Kids
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Summer Crafts for Kids

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When boredom looms and the weather’s hot, these summer crafts for kids are the best! Kids are always excited to be free from the school routine when they are let out for summer break, but it isn’t long until they start wondering what to do.

The good news is that this list of craft ideas for kids is packed with hours of creative fun, waiting for them to get started!

DIY crafts for kids can provide some cute decorations around the home while keeping the kids entertained and preventing boredom. This summer, make it full of creativity, fun, and imagination!

What are some objects found in nature that kids can use for crafting?

Nature is full of objects that are perfect for crafting!

  1. Leaves: Great for leaf rubbings, collages, or creating leaf animals.
  2. Rocks and Pebbles: Perfect for painting, making story stones, or creating rock animals.
  3. Twigs and Sticks: Can be used to build small structures, wands, or nature mobiles.
  4. Pinecones: Ideal for making bird feeders, ornaments, or little creatures.
  5. Flowers: Use for pressing, making flower crowns, or decorating cards.
  6. Acorns and Nutshells: Ideal for creating miniature figures, animals, or jewelry.
  7. Seashells: Perfect for decorating frames, making necklaces, or creating wind chimes.
  8. Feathers: Can be used to create dreamcatchers, masks, or add texture to art.
  9. Sand: Use for sand art or creating textured paintings.
  10. Tree Bark: Can be used for textured rubbings or as a base for natural art.
  11. Grass and Reeds: Ideal for weaving, creating small baskets, or incorporating into collages.
  12. Driftwood: Perfect for sculptures, mobiles, or rustic decorations.

These natural materials not only inspire creativity but also encourage kids to explore and appreciate the outdoors!

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How can I keep my house mess-free during my child’s craft time?

Keeping your house mess-free during your child’s craft time can be a challenge, but with a bit of planning and organization, it’s totally doable! Here are some tips:

Designate a Craft Zone

  • Set up a designated area for crafting, such as a table or a corner of a room, to contain the mess.
  • Use a washable tablecloth or craft mat to protect surfaces.

Use Easy-to-Clean Materials

  • Choose washable markers, paints, and glue.
  • Avoid glitter (or use it sparingly) since it tends to spread everywhere.

Prep the Space

  • Lay down newspaper, butcher paper, or an old sheet to catch spills and scraps.
  • Keep a trash can or recycling bin nearby for easy cleanup.

Organize Supplies

  • Use bins, baskets, or caddies to keep craft supplies organized and within reach.
  • Label containers so everything has a home when it’s time to clean up.

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Set Rules and Expectations

  • Teach your child to clean as they go, like putting caps back on markers or wiping up spills immediately.
  • Encourage them to finish one project before starting another to minimize chaos.

Use Aprons or Old Clothes

  • Have your child wear a craft apron or old clothes to avoid ruining their regular outfits.

Limit the Messy Stuff

  • If you’re short on time, avoid crafts that require a lot of small pieces or messy materials, such as paint or glue.

Have Cleanup Supplies Ready

  • Keep wet wipes, paper towels, and a small handheld vacuum or broom nearby for quick cleanups.

Time It Right

  • Schedule craft time when you can supervise and help with cleanup afterward.

Make Cleanup Fun

  • Turn cleanup into a game or play music to make it more enjoyable for your child.

By setting up a system and involving your child in the process, you can keep the mess under control while still encouraging their creativity!

          

 

More Summer Fun for Kids

Keep the learning fun and activities going with these summer ideas and activities!

Summer Learning Printable Activities

Check out these fun summer worksheets for the kids! Excellent to combat the summer slide!

1
Hand Print Art Letter W
Hand Print Art Letter W
This 'W is for Watermelon' craft combines learning and creativity as little ones use their handprints to make a colorful watermelon design.
See the craft here
2
Marbled Paper Plate Butterfly Craft
Marbled Paper Plate Butterfly Craft
Kids will love experimenting with paint to create unique designs, turning simple materials into vibrant butterfly art.
See the craft here
3
Fireworks Ring Craft
Fireworks Ring Craft
Kids can create their own wearable fireworks using simple materials, making it a fun and interactive way to enjoy holiday celebrations or sparkly playtime.
See the craft here
4
Make an Egg Carton Flower Summer Wreath
Make an Egg Carton Flower Summer Wreath
Brighten up your space with this Egg Carton Flower Summer Wreath! Perfect for tweens, this eco-friendly craft turns recycled materials into a colorful and cheerful summer decoration.
See the craft here
5
Coffee Filter Butterflies
Coffee Filter Butterflies
Create beautiful and colorful Coffee Filter Butterflies with this simple craft!
See the craft here
6
Tie Dye T-Shirts
Tie Dye T-Shirts
Get creative with this fun Tie-Dye T-Shirt project for kids! Learn how to make vibrant, unique designs that are perfect for summer or any time of year.
See the craft here
7
Macrame Rock Necklaces
Macrame Rock Necklaces
Combine nature and creativity with these Macrame Rock Necklaces! This fun craft lets kids turn rocks into unique, wearable art using simple macrame techniques.
See the craft here
8
Campfire Craft
Campfire Craft
Bring the cozy campfire vibes indoors with this fun Campfire Craft! Kids can create their own mini campfire using simple materials!
See the craft here
9
Paper Bag Mask
Paper Bag Mask
Kids can transform simple paper bags into unique masks, perfect for imaginative play and endless fun.
See the craft here
10
A Circles Suncatcher Summer Craft for Kids
A Circles Suncatcher Summer Craft for Kids
Brighten up your windows with this colorful Suncatcher Summer Craft!
See the craft here
11
Lemonade Summer Craft
Lemonade Summer Craft
Add a splash of summer fun with this Lemonade Craft!
See the craft here
12
Summer CD Tissue Paper Sun Craft
Summer CD Tissue Paper Sun Craft
Kids can upcycle old CDs into dazzling sun decorations, perfect for adding a touch of sparkle to summer fun and creativity.
See the craft here
13
DIY Sand Hand Print
DIY Sand Hand Print
Capture summer memories with this Beach Sand Handprint Craft!
See the craft here
14
Paper Plate Beach Ball Craft
Paper Plate Beach Ball Craft
Kids can design their own colorful beach balls using simple materials, making it a fun and easy activity for sunny days.
See the craft here
15
How to Make Seashell Candles
How to Make Seashell Candles
Perfect for kids and adults, these candles bring a touch of the beach into your home and make lovely handmade gifts.
See the craft here
16
Seashell Ornaments
Seashell Ornaments
Turn beach treasures into beautiful Seashell Ornaments!
See the craft here
17
Beautiful Dragonfly Stick Craft
Beautiful Dragonfly Stick Craft
Kids can use sticks and other simple materials to create adorable dragonflies, combining creativity with outdoor exploration.
See the craft here
18
Beautiful Suncatcher Flower Mandalas
Beautiful Suncatcher Flower Mandalas
Create stunning Nature Suncatcher Mandalas with this beautiful craft!
See the craft here
19
Leaf Lantern Craft
Leaf Lantern Craft
Light up your space with these enchanting Leaf Lanterns!
See the craft here
20
Handprint Flower Craft
Kids can use their handprints to create vibrant flowers, making a delightful and personal keepsake or gift.
See the craft here

Have fun picking and choosing what to start with! There are so many fun ideas for kids – they’re going to want to do them all!

Please let me know which one your child enjoyed the most!

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