Looking for fun ways to connect with your kids that don’t involve electronics? Some kids’ craft ideas and little guidance might be all you need to get your kids to abandon their screens and put on their crafty hats.
Craft time with your kids can do much more than just reduce their screen time, though that’s an awesome benefit in itself. It can also strengthen your bond. “There is something special about creating and being together that knits something special in a kid’s heart and instills confidence in them,” says Beckie Farrant, the creator of craft site Infarrantly Creative.
While you’re planning your projects, keep in mind the age and abilities of your child. For younger kids, remember that they’re still working on their eye-hand coordination and might need a little help. “Be patient and let them do the craft on their own,” says Angie Ramirez, the blogger behind Little Inspiration. “Find craft projects that involve painting, cutting and pasting.” Feeling inspired and ready to create with your kiddos?
Try these 10 fun and easy kids’ craft ideas:
- Fabric Tassel Garland.
Not only is this craft from Pretty Prudent super easy to make, it’s a great way to use up your bin of mismatched fabric scraps. Plus what kid wouldn’t love to have this tassel garland hanging in her room?
- Felt Boxes
Kids love to have secret places to hide their most valuable treasures. Make these simple boxes from How About Orange with felt and hot glue, and give your little one a new place to hide his loot.
- Blankets
Super easy and versatile, this no-sew blanket tutorial from Girl Inspired can have you and your kids making soft, cozy blankets in no time. You can make them for yourselves, for your pets or for your kids’ dolls.
- Sock Dolls
Every child loves to have something to hold onto and shower with affections. With this tutorial from Artists Helping Children, kids can make their very own sock doll that’s sure to be their favorite buddy.
- Duct Tape Zippered Pouch
Help your kids make a pouch to hold their electronics, small toys or their allowance. All you need is fabric, matching duct tape, a zipper and a stapler.
- Doggie Bow Tie
Let your kids dress up the pups in your house with this no-sew doggie bow tie tutorial from Pretty Fluffy. No pup? No problem. You can make these for the piles of stuffed animals your little one has sitting in their room or add a few to your box of dress-up supplies.
- Water Bottle Holder
Is your child always asking you to carry his water bottle? This crafty project is both fun and practical.
- Fabric Flowers
What child doesn’t love pretty flowers? Create these lovely flowers from Ruffles and Stuff and add them to all sorts of things, such as headbands, belts, shoes or tote bags. The options are endless.
- Cape
Unleash your child’s inner superhero with this simple no-sew cape tutorial from Andrea’s Notebook. All you need is fabric and ribbon — no glue required!
- Felt Flower Bracelets
Pretty up your child’s arm with this easy flower bracelet from Merriment Design. Not into a floral theme? Change the flowers to cars, planets or dinosaurs.
If you’re new to this crafting thing, don’t worry: the key to success is planning. “Have a plan and all the materials laid out,” says Farrant. “If I have to go searching for a supply while mid-craft, all chaos breaks out.”
Want more craft ideas? Try these 8 Cool Crafts for Kids.
Kimberly DeMucha Kalil is a freelance journalist, software consultant and crafty mom living in Southern Arizona with her husband and two children.
