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Friday, May 11, 2012

Hand Print Bird Kids Craft

for Ages 18 months and up with Adult Participation and Supervision

Since Mother's Day is right in May there is no better way to celebrate than with a sprinkle of handmade Spring crafts. Hand print crafts are precious keepsakes that can be saved for years to hold onto the memories of when your kids were small.

Supplies:
½ sheet of cardstock per hand print
Fingerpaint, color of bird and yellow for beak
Googly eyes
Paper bag
Glue

Time Needed:
20 minutes plus 8 hours total drying time

Prep:
Cut down cardstock. Don’t forget to protect clothing and furniture.

Instructions:
Apply the paint for the bird to child’s hand. Have him/her firmly press down on the cardstock with fingers slightly apart to resemble feathers. Set aside the hand print and let dry.

While the paint is drying cut the paper bag into small pieces and slightly crumple. I used decorative scissors for a fringed effect.

When the hand print is dry have your child glue the paper pieces down to form a nest over the thumb. Add a googly eye and beak to finish the bird. Write or have your child write a message to Mom. Be sure to let the card dry completely before gifting.

Let little children into the fun by helping them along. Painting hands with the finger paints and brushing the glue on the card so they can apply the paper bag pieces are simple ways to make this craft doable for toddlers.
This project was inspired by TheCraftNest
Melinda is half of the Mom & Dad blogging team from LookWhatMomFound...and Dad too! Almost 5 years ago Melinda left the corporate world to focus on raising her children while being a SAHM. With 15 years of parenting practice to 3 kids life has provided her many experiences that she has used to educate the family on morals, ethics and the difference between right and wrong. While academics are very important, a full education goes beyond books and grades. Melinda strives to raise children with good hearts, strong principles and a foundation built on love and respect for others.
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Thursday, May 10, 2012

Mother's Day Kids Crafts: Projects #95

Mother's Day Kids Crafts
Preschool Crafts for all abilities!   
for Ages 3 Years and Up    
I realized that many of our previously posted Valentine's Day crafts would make great Mother's Day Gifts as well! Some need minor changes and others are perfect for Mother's Day as is!
Mother's Day is Sunday May 13th, 2012!

Why We Love Crafts for Kids
 Art develops creative thinking, provides means of communication and self expression, increases self understanding, strengthens self concepts and confidence, serves as an emotional release, provides decision-making opportunities, develops appreciation for the individuality of others, aids physical coordination, develops work habits and a sense of responsibility, heightens aesthetic awareness and sensitivity, and generates joy!
For Children with Special NeedsAssist your child as much as needed - but allow it to be his project.  Art projects are great for fine motor exercise, and using creativity. If your child has a limited attention span, have all supplies ready before having him begin the project. This opportunity for hands-on learning with no wrong choices is ideal to foster self esteem as well. Substitute any listed supplies for supplies that your child enjoys working with.

FEATURED TOYDecorate Your Own Heart Box *ON SALE $5.59
Beautiful, sentimental gift for Mom! This solid wood; colorful craft set comes with a bountiful supply of accent stick-ons and decorations: everything a child needs to complete a project that they can proudly call their own! Makes a great party activity or favor.  *price is subject to change




Check out these FREE Mother's Day Printables from the TwistyNoodle that you can customize! Print one out, color or paint it, and make it into a gift for Mom!
 
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Monday, April 2, 2012

Spring Flowers Using Paint Chips: Craft for Kids

Spring Paint Chip Flower
by Melinda from LookWhatMomFound...and Dad too! 

Crafts for all abilities! 
Ages 18 Months and Up with Adult Participation and Supervision.
I don't know about you but I'm addicted to the beautiful rainbow of colors in the paint section at the Hardware Store.  I get inspired but the different shades and go home with my head spinning from all the ideas.  This one was simple. I picked up 1 card from each color group and thought what a lovely bouqet, voila, a Paint Chip Flower Bouquet.

Supplies Needed:
  • Paint Chips in desired colors (don't forget green for the stems)
  • Scissors
  • School Glue
  • Cardstock or Construction Paper


Time Needed: 15 Minutes plus cutting and glue drying time 

Prep: Depending on your child's ability and age have them cut (or you cut) random pieces from the paint chips.  We did triangles to show that they can be just about any size with all different size angles.  Shae (age 4 1/2)was able to do a good job cutting but grew tired of it after a few minutes. I cut the remaining paint chips the day before the craft and stored them separated by color.

Instructions:  
  • Have child glue down stems on paper.  
  • Have child spread circle of glue on top of stem
  • Have child arrange paint chip pieces in specific or random order. Use this time to quiz child on paint colors.
        • Don't leave out the younger children. My 27 month old niece enjoyed making 1 big flower with ALL of the colors.  Picking up the tinier pieces of paper worked her fine motor skills and getting her fingers stuck in the glue made her smile.
      paint chip flower, paint chip crafts, crafts for toddlers
        Why We Love Crafts for Kids: Art develops creative thinking, provides means of communication and self expression, increases self understanding, strengthens self concepts and confidence, serves as an emotional release, provides decision-making opportunities, develops appreciation for the individuality of others, aids physical coordination, develops work habits and a sense of responsibility, heightens aesthetic awareness and sensitivity, and generates joy! 
        For Children with Special Needs:  Assist your child as much as needed - but allow it to be his project.  Art projects are great for fine motor exercise and using creativity.
        If your child has a limited attention span, have all supplies ready before having him begin the project.
        This opportunity for hands-on learning with no wrong choices is ideal to foster self esteem as well.
      Kids Art Supplies Construction Paper 
      Child Safe Scissors
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      Friday, March 30, 2012

      Easter Eggs Hiding in the Grass: Spring & Easter Preschool Crafts for Kids Project #63

      Easter Eggs Hiding in the Grass
      Spring & Easter Preschool Crafts for all abilities!   
      for Ages 3 Years and Up
      Our completed Easter Eggs hiding in the grass.
      I love our spaghetti grass!
      Supplies Needed:
      • Uncooked Spaghetti (10-20 strands)
      • Green Food Coloring
      • Plastic Bag (that seals closed)
      • Rubbing Alcohol
      • Waxed Paper
      • White Glue
      • White Foam Paper or White Construction Paper
      • 3 Different Colors of Construction Paper
      • Scissors
      Time Needed:  
      • For Spaghetti: 5 minutes plus drying time
      • For Craft: 15 minutes plus drying time
      What To Do:
      1. Break spaghetti into 2-3 inch pieces and put into a plastic bag.
      2. ADULT ONLY: Add 5 drops of green food coloring and 2 capfuls of rubbing alcohol.
      3. Remove as much air as possible and then seal bag closed and then tape closed.
        This isn't ready yet. Notice the different colors. Keep "mixing' until it's uniformly colored
      4. Shake the bag and gently move the spaghetti around until they look evenly colored.
      5. ADULT ONLY: Pour colored spaghetti out of the bag and onto the waxed paper. Flatten and spread out spaghetti and let dry completely.
      6. Cut out an Easter Egg shape from each color construction paper you've chosen.
        HINT: Stack the 3 sheets of paper together and cut them out at the same time if you want them to look the same size and shape.
      7. OPTIONAL: Decorate the eggs.
      8. Glue the eggs to the white foam paper or white construction paper.

      9. When spaghetti has dried use white glue to attach them to the bottom of the paper, under the eggs.
        Try to put the grass on only 1 layer thick.
        Overlapping pieces may not stick.
      10. Let dry completely.
      11. ENJOY! You're done! Show it off by hanging your masterpiece on the wall!
      12. Don't Forget to Take a photo and share it with us! You are automatically entered into our WEEKLY GIVEAWAY on our Facebook Page when you post a photo of your finished project and "Like" Us ! Giveaway is randomly selected.
      Why We Love Crafts for Kids:
      Art develops creative thinking, provides means of communication and self expression, increases self understanding, strengthens self concepts and confidence, serves as an emotional release, provides decision-making opportunities, develops appreciation for the individuality of others, aids physical coordination, develops work habits and a sense of responsibility, heightens aesthetic awareness and sensitivity, and generates joy!

      For Children with Special Needs: 
      Assist your child as much as needed - but allow it to be his project.  Art projects are great for fine motor exercise, and using creativity.

      If your child has a limited attention span, have all supplies ready before having him begin the project.

      This opportunity for hands-on learning with no wrong choices is ideal to foster self esteem as well.

      Substitute any listed supplies for supplies that your child enjoys working with.

      For Older Children: An older child will also enjoy this project but may want to elaborately decorate the Easter Eggs.

      A fun BOOK to read in conjunction with this craft is "Easter Egg Hunt" By Chuck Murphy. This Razzle Dazzle book is a fun Easter Egg hunt! Each page of the board book has eggs hidden that must be found. Children will enjoy pointing out the eggs and looking at the pretty patterns and textures on each one!

      Check out these FREE Easter Printables from the TwistyNoodle that you can customize!
       
      PLEASE LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS! We want to know your opinion of this kids craft, if you enjoyed it, and other ideas that may be similar. 

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      Textured Easter Eggs Sensory Art! Kids Easter & Spring Crafts Project #67

      Textured Easter Eggs Sensory Art
      Easter & Spring Crafts for Kids of all Abilities!   
      for Ages 3 Years and Up    
      Textured Easter Eggs Sensory Art!
      Beautiful vibrant colors and interesting textures make this Easter craft a sensory dream come true!
      Supplies Needed:
      • Colored Cotton Balls or Pom Poms
      • White Glue 
      • Double Sided Tape
      • 2  Sheets Yellow Construction Paper or Foam Paper
      • Buttons in Different Colors & Sizes
      • 6 Pipe Cleaners, 2 in each of 3 colors
      • Scissors
      • Newspaper To Keep The Work Area Clean
      Time Needed:  
      • 15-30 Minutes for each textured egg craft plus drying time
      What To Do:
      •  Colored Cotton Ball Textured Egg:
      1. Print egg template and cut out 3 eggs from construction paper or foam paper. You only need to use the egg shape from the template.
        Photo of Egg Template. Print from Link
      2. The foam paper we used had an adhesive back so we used the sticky side to attach the colored cotton balls. If you aren't using that, apply glue or double sided tape to the first egg.
        Adhesive back on our foam sheet revealed. Use double sided
        tape or glue if you are using a different item.
        Attach colored cotton balls in any way you like!
        Ahh! Beautiful, Soft, & Fun to Touch!
      3. Attach the colored cotton to the egg.
      4. Let dry completely, if necessary.
        My son approves :)
      • Button Textured Easter Egg:
      1. The foam paper we used had an adhesive back so we used the sticky side to attach the buttons. If you aren't using that, apply glue or double sided tape to the second egg.
      2. Sort buttons by color if you want your egg to look similar to ours.
        This is something my kids really enjoy. The feel, sound, and sight of the
        buttons is irresistible to them!
      3. Attach buttons to the egg.
        We peeled back the adhesive a little at a time because
        it was very strong and we were getting stuck to it!
      4. Let dry completely, if necessary.
        LOVE IT! Beautiful!
      • Pipe Cleaner Textured Easter Egg: 
      1. Wrap a pipe cleaner around a pen or your finger.

      2. Remove pipe cleaner. It should be squiggly.
      3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for all pipe cleaners (6).
      4. The foam paper we used had an adhesive back so we used the sticky side to attach the pipe cleaners. Apply double sided tape to your last egg.
        HINT: I also did this without the sticky back foam and it worked best using double sided tape and NOT glue if you have it.
      5. Stretch or compress the squiggly pipe cleaner so it will fit the width of the egg where you are placing it.
      6. Press flat to attach to the egg.
      7. Repeat until all pipe cleaners are used and egg is covered.
      8. Let dry completely, if necessary.
      • Put it all together!
      1. Use double sided tape or white glue to attach all 3 eggs to a sheet of construction paper or sheet of foam paper.
      2. Let dry completely, if necessary. 
      3. Hang with pride and admire! Go ahead and touch it!
      4. Don't Forget to Take a photo and share it with us! You are automatically entered into our WEEKLY GIVEAWAY on our Facebook Page when you post a photo of your finished project and "Like" Us ! Giveaway is randomly selected.

        Looking Fantastic Together! Great to look at and touch!
      I'm soft and colorful!
      Beautiful, colorful, shiny, hard, and both smooth & bumpy!
      I'm fuzzy, soft, bright and flexible!
      Why We Love Crafts for Kids:
      Art develops creative thinking, provides means of communication and self expression, increases self understanding, strengthens self concepts and confidence, serves as an emotional release, provides decision-making opportunities, develops appreciation for the individuality of others, aids physical coordination, develops work habits and a sense of responsibility, heightens aesthetic awareness and sensitivity, and generates joy!

      For Children with Special Needs:  Assist your child as much as needed - but allow it to be his project.  Art projects are great for fine motor exercise, and using creativity.
      If your child has a limited attention span, have all supplies ready before having him begin the project.

      This opportunity for hands-on learning with no wrong choices is ideal to foster self esteem as well.

      Substitute any listed supplies for supplies that your child enjoys working with.

      If your child enjoys sensory activities let him really get involved with the different supplies and encourage him to touch, sort, and handle them.
       
      For Older Children: An older child will enjoy this project as is.




      FEATURED BOOK
      A fun BOOK to read in conjunction with this craft is "Happy Snappy Easter Egg Hunt" By Derek Matthews. Each page features bright artwork and a pop-up of a different creature, including a rooster on a rooftop, a butterfly, a duck swimming down the riverside, a skipping lamb, and all the Easter bunnies. Happy Snappy Easter Egg Hunt makes a sweet bedtime book and an ideal Easter basket stuffer. The "Snappy" books are immensely popular with the 3-5 year old crowd because of their fun graphics and pop-up fun!

      Check out these FREE Easter Printables from the TwistyNoodle that you can customize!

      Play An Egg Matching Game! Cut out 12 pair of eggs from construction paper, using several different colors. Then, make 12 exact matches (from the 24 eggs) using patterns, hole punches, dots, letters of the alphabet, or numbers.
      • To Play
        Age 3 and up
        1. Place 18 eggs face up in a grid pattern (3 rows of 6 eggs)
        2. Put the rest of the eggs aside for now
        3. Player 1: Looks for a match on the board and takes those eggs
        4. Player 2 does the same. 
        5. This play continues until a player can not find a match. When this happens a card is taken from the remaining 6 eggs and turned over on the board.
        6. Game is over when all matches are made.
          TO PLAY COMPETITIVELY: Winner is the player with the most eggs at the end.
          TO PLAY COOPERATIVELY:           Place all eggs face up between the players. Race instead of taking turns and both players try to gather up the egg pairs as quickly as possible. Set a timer for 3-5 minutes and together see if you can beat the timer!
      PLEASE POST IN COMMENTS your opinion of this kids craft, if you enjoyed it, other ideas that may be similar.    
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