It’s amazing what one can find when cleaning out old files. I came across some oldie but goodie arts and crafts ideas left over from my early parenting days. We got lots of mileage out of them in my home, and I’m delighted to share them with you. These will prove to be fun ways to enjoy cold winter days, wet spring days, or to enjoy spending time outside.
The following activities are great to do with toddlers and preschoolers. On milder days, you can take advantage of the outdoors, set up your little ones on a picnic table or other easily hosed-off surface, and have at it. Bonus benefit: Our internal clocks are largely regulated by light. Fresh air, sunshine, and fun daily activities help regulate melatonin and promote healthy sleep habits.
When activities need to move inside, create an art and crafts-friendly indoor space with an old shower curtain on the floor and plastic or old, washable tablecloth underneath the projects.
Get creative. Bring out kitchen utensils like a garlic press or potato ricer for use with homemade play dough. Forks, child-friendly knives, and children’s craft scissors with decorative edges produce fun designs. Let your imagination run wild! Most importantly, HAVE FUN.
Play Dough
Yield 2 cups
1 1/2 c. water
2 tsp. liquid food coloring
2 Tbl. cooking oil
2 c. flour
1/2 c. salt
4 Tbl. cream of tartar
In a small bowl, combine water, food coloring, and oil. Set aside.
Put flour, salt, and cream of tartar into a large saucepan.
Over medium heat, pour the water mixture into the saucepan, stirring constantly.
Cook and stir for 5 minutes until a ball of dough forms.
Cool the dough for 5 min, then knead with your hands until smooth.
Store in the frig when not in use.
Bubbles
Yield 2 cups
1 c. green dishwashing detergent
1/2 c. glycerin, available at drug stores
1/2 c. water
In a metal can or plastic container, combine detergent, glycerin, and water. Mix thoroughly.
Dip the wand into the container, ensuring a film of liquid is stretched across it. Blow gently for super long-lasting bubbles.
Goop (awesome for Halloween)
Yield 1 to 1 1/2 cups
1/2 tsp Borax detergent, available in the grocery store
1/4 c. cold water
1/4 c. cornstarch
4 oz. white craft glue
2 tsp green liquid food coloring
In a disposable plastic container, combine Borax and water until the Borax has dissolved. Set aside.
Sift the cornstarch into a mixing bowl. Add the glue, mix well.
Add the Borax solution, stirring constantly for two minutes, even after the Goop forms.
Knead Goop with your hands until it is no longer sticky.
Finger Paints
Yield 3/4 cup of each color
1 envelope unflavored gelatin
2 1/2 cups cold water
1 c. cornstarch
1/2 c. soap flakes
2 drops each of four shades of icing color paste, available at craft and baking supply stores
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/2 c of the water and mix until dissolved.
Combine the cornstarch, soap flakes, and remaining 2 cups of water in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add gelatin mixture to the saucepan, stirring until it becomes thick.
Remove the pan from the heat and strain the mixture equally into 4 containers.
Cool for an hour, and then add a different shade of icing color paste to each container. Fold in color until thoroughly mixed. Note: Undiluted paste will stain hands and clothing.
Store in the frig when not in use.
I also have a recipe for peanut butter play dough, which means edible play dough. Message me if you’d like that recipe.
Enjoy!!!
