DIY Craft Ideas for Parents and Kids to Enjoy

Being a new parent is a whirlwind of emotions, filled with countless firsts and precious moments. One of the joys of parenting is engaging in activities that bring the family closer together.

Crafting is a wonderful way to bond with your children, ignite their creativity, and create lasting memories! Here are some DIY craft ideas that are perfect for parents and kids to enjoy together this summer.

1. Handprint and Footprint Art

Handprint and footprint art is a timeless craft that captures the tiny size of your child’s hands and feet. All you need is some non-toxic paint, paper, and a little imagination.

Materials:

• Non-toxic paint

• Paintbrushes

• Paper or canvas

Instructions:

1. Pour the paint onto a palette or plate.

2. Dip your child’s hand or foot into the paint, ensuring it's fully covered.

3. Press their hand or foot onto the paper or canvas.

4. Let the paint dry, then decorate around the prints to turn them into animals, flowers, or other fun shapes.

2. DIY Play Dough

Making your own play dough is a fun activity and a great sensory experience for young children. Plus, it’s safe and easy to make with ingredients you likely already have at home.

Materials:

• 2 cups of flour

• 1 cup of salt

• 1 cup of water

• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil

• Food coloring

Instructions:

1. Mix the flour and salt in a large bowl.

2. Add the water and vegetable oil, stirring until it forms a dough.

3. Divide the dough into smaller portions and add a few drops of food coloring to each.

4. Knead the dough until the color is evenly distributed.

5. Store in airtight containers when not in use.

3. Paper Plate Animals

Transform simple paper plates into adorable animals. This craft allows your child to practice their cutting and gluing skills while learning about different animals.

Materials:

• Paper plates

• Colored construction paper

• Scissors

• Glue

• Markers or crayons

• Googly eyes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Choose an animal to create and plan out the colors you’ll need.

2. Cut out shapes from the construction paper for the animal’s features (e.g., ears, nose, tail).

3. Glue the shapes onto the paper plate to create the animal’s face and body.

4. Use markers or crayons to add details and bring your animal to life.

4. Nature Collages

A nature walk can be an excellent opportunity to gather materials for a nature collage. This craft teaches children to appreciate the outdoors and use natural materials creatively.

Materials:

• Leaves, flowers, twigs, and other natural items

• Glue

• Paper or cardboard

Instructions:

1. Take a walk outside and collect interesting natural items.

2. Arrange the items on a piece of paper or cardboard to create a collage.

3. Glue the items in place.

4. Let the collage dry, and then display it proudly in your home.

5. Salt Dough Ornaments

Salt dough ornaments are a fantastic way to create keepsakes that you can cherish for years. These can be customized for any holiday or season.

Materials:

• 1 cup of flour

• 1/2 cup of salt

• 1/2 cup of water

• Cookie cutters

• Acrylic paint

• Ribbon or string

Instructions:

1. Mix the flour, salt, and water in a bowl until it forms a dough.

2. Roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.

3. Use a straw to make a small hole at the top of each shape for hanging.

4. Bake the shapes at 250°F (120°C) for 2-3 hours or until hard.

5. Once cool, paint and decorate the ornaments.

6. Thread ribbon or string through the holes for hanging.

6. Rainbow Pasta Necklaces

Making pasta necklaces is a colorful and fun way to practice fine motor skills and creativity. Your child will love wearing their handmade jewelry.

Materials:

• Uncooked pasta (various shapes)

• Food coloring

• Resealable plastic bags

• String or yarn

Instructions:

1. Place the pasta in resealable plastic bags.

2. Add a few drops of food coloring and a teaspoon of water to each bag.

3. Seal the bags and shake until the pasta is evenly colored.

4. Spread the pasta out on paper towels to dry.

5. Once dry, string the pasta onto yarn or string to make necklaces.

7. Egg Carton Animals

Turn an empty egg carton into a cute animal! This simple craft is perfect for young children and can be used to teach them about animals and their life cycles.

Materials:

• Empty egg carton

• Paint and paintbrushes

• Pipe cleaners

• Googly eyes

• Glue

• Scissors

Instructions:

1. Cut the egg carton into single cups.

2. Paint the egg carton strips in bright colors and let them dry.

3. Glue googly eyes onto one end to create the animal’s face.

4. Attach pipe cleaners to the top for antennae or ears.

5. Add any additional decorations as desired.

Crafting with your children is a wonderful way to foster creativity, build fine motor skills, and create cherished memories. These DIY craft ideas are simple, fun, and perfect for parents and kids to enjoy together.

So gather your supplies, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the precious moments spent crafting with your little ones. Happy crafting!