Rainy days don’t have to result in temper tantrums. In fact, they can bring their own kind of fun when fueled by imagination and backed by the power of glitter. Here are just a few ways to keep the kiddos entertained with arts and crafts when everyone is stuck inside.
Paper Mache
Kids love getting their hands dirty, and paper mache projects will allow them to play around with ooey-gooey goodness in a constructive way. If you want to minimize the mess, you can also break out paper or cardboard products without the paste. Lunch bags can make puppets while toilet paper rolls can make animals or wreaths. Even clothespins can be turned into dragonflies.
Candle Making
Candle making might seem like a dangerous activity, but as long as mom and dad are in charge of the lighter, there’s nothing to worry about. Basic candle making supplies are just wax, wicks, and containers to hold it all. You can get fancier with decorative elements or with oils, funnels, adhesive, and other tools, but they aren’t strictly necessary.
Origami
Origami is a great activity for older children. As long as they can follow instructions, they can create mesmerizing works of art with nothing more than folded sheets of paper. You can even purchase special kinds of origami paper from craft stores that are made with thick, high-quality card stock and printed with cool patterns.
Macaroni Art
It’s a classic for a reason. There are endless ways to have fun with macaroni art, and you usually have the necessary supplies in your cupboard already. Just pull out a box and spread some paint, markers, beads, glitter, string, and construction paper on the table. Your kids might surprise you with everything from noodle necklaces to crushed-up abstract art.
These are just a few ways to take the rainy day blues and channel them into something much more fun. Kids can express their creative sides, and adults can take quiet satisfaction in the fact that they’ve encouraged these developmental skills while also creating precious memories with their little ones. In the end, crafting is an activity that can truly bring everyone together.
