Some of my most favourite things to do with the kids is to craft.
The key is to first test the concept quickly while they’re asleep so that I know how to troubleshoot in case there’s a meltdown or two.
(you might say I learnt that one the hard way)
Supplies
- Ziploc bags (the proper Ziplocs because they’re sturdier). I used these zipper slide bags because they were already in the shape of a pencil bag
- washi tape/ decorative tape (my first test bag was made with Scotch tape I bought in the USA)
- scissors
I also had one on one craft time with the kids so that there wasn’t any fighting (No, Kendra, don’t take my scissors; Connor’s using my tape/ too close to me/ breathing, etc. I’m sure this doesn’t happen at your house) and we could both enjoy the activity.
This is so easy it feels silly to write about how to do it but I’ll try.
1. Choose your co-ordinating tapes.
2. Decide in which order you’re going to arrange them.
3. Let the tape overlap a bit on a few of the rows to keep your bag stable.
4. Once the first side is complete, we cut the ends off before flipping the bag around. Be careful to not cut the bags open!
5. Tape down the second side too, ideally in the same order, so that you can overlap a little tape if you need.
When your bags are finished, they’ll look like this…
Use for holding pencils, pencil crayons (colouring pencils), flash cards, Project Life cards on the go…. or as I call them, cards for LISTS, any bits and bobs.
Tips for a successful crafting session:
- explain what you’re going to do before you even go to the crafting area
- manage any perfectionistic tendencies carefully – yours and those of the kid (s). It really doesn’t have to be perfect. The fun is in the crazy colours and
- It’s best if you don’t plan to get any serious crafting done – just enjoy the time with your kids.
Have you done anything fun with your kids recently? Or what have you personally created?
