Easy Crafts


Crafts don't have to be difficult and messy.  Trust me, I practically got kicked out of art class in fifth grade, so if I can do crafts with my kids, anyone can!  I have dedicated myself to coming up with very easy projects, most of which can be done with stuff you already have around the house.  In our new book, The Happy Mommy Handbook: The Ultimate How-to Guide on Keeping Your Toddlers and Preschoolers Busy, Out of Trouble and Motivated to Learn, Susan Case, former Kindergarten teacher discusses the importance of crafts for young children,


"Although it can seem overwhelming for Moms, don’t deprive your child, or yourself, from making crafts — which can become a creative process called art.  In fact, offer your child numerous opportunities to express themselves through the process of art. It isn’t the product that is important, according to many child development specialists and art therapists. It is the child’s self-expression, which gives you a view of what is inside. All children love to make things showing their individuality and just for the pure enjoyment of creating and spending time with family members while talking, expressing and receiving praise. They feel connected, loved and happy — which results in fewer behavior problems."


Kids love singing, especially Old MacDonald Had a Farm.  Gather up some paper plates, construction paper, and cotton balls, and enjoy making these  Easy Farm Projects (Cow, Sheep, Cat)
For this, all you will need is some paper towel holders and paint.  Find out more about making an Octopus from Paper Towel Holder

    Boys need crafts too!  If your little one likes cars or Thomas the Train, he will love this Fun Racetrack Craft for Boys. Plus, it's a game that siblings can actually enjoy together!  Even girls!
    If your daughter is anything like mine, she will love this easy Strawberry Shortcake Craft.   You can make all the characters too...just use orange, blue, and purple yarn for all the different characters!
    My Little Pony Craft
     This is a project that my kids will do over and over again: Caterpillars From Egg Cartons!  
    Try reading a book about caterpillars before you begin and it's so easy because all you need is an egg carton, some paint, and some googly eyes!

    My daughter made this Glue Paint Project for her new baby cousin. She loved being able to give this as a gift at the baby shower.

    Not only is this an easy craft, but it's also a great sensory learning activity.  Kids learn about how air moves and about making bubbles when they do Painting With Straws


    If you want to combine burning energy with crafts, try  Painting Rocks.  First gather them outside, then simply paint them!


    This is a craft that you will never have to throw away because it makes a beautiful centerpiece.  Your children will love seeing their Tissue Paper Flowers 
    on display all the time!

    If you like these ideas, you will love my book!  It was released in July, 2012 and was co-written by me and Susan Case.  In this unique book, which was written by both a Mom and a former Kindergarten Teacher, you will find ways to keep your little kids busy, out of trouble, and motivated to learn.  If you have ever tried to cook dinner while your kid clings to your leg and cries, this is the book for you!  Kids behave better when they are given challenging projects to work on, which will in turn give you more free time to do the things you really need to do, like washing dishes, paying bills, and relaxing so that you can be a better Mom!



    Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)