Summer is here, and the kids are out of school, which means you’re probably on the lookout for ways to keep them entertained. With the sun shining and nature calling, it’s the perfect time to dive into some creative projects. Kids crafts can be a fantastic way for children to express themselves, learn new skills, and make memories. I created this post because I know how challenging it can be to find activities that are engaging and fun while also keeping kids occupied for hours.
If you’re a parent, caregiver, or anyone who enjoys spending time with kids, this article is for you. You want activities that spark their creativity, engage their minds, and let them explore their artistic side without requiring too much supervision. What you’ll find here are 15 super fun kids crafts that are not only easy to make but also offer a chance for your little ones to create something unique. Each project is designed to foster creativity and keep those summer days busy and bright.
Get ready to roll up your sleeves! These crafts will bring joy and a sense of accomplishment to your kids. With ideas ranging from DIY tie-dye T-shirts to nature mandalas, there’s something here for every little artist in your life. So grab your supplies, and let the fun begin!
Key Takeaways
– A Variety of Projects: This list includes 15 fun kids crafts that cater to different interests, ensuring every child finds something they love.
– Material Accessibility: Most of the craft ideas utilize common household items or easy-to-find materials, making it simple to get started without a trip to the store.
– Skill Development: Each craft can help kids develop essential skills like fine motor skills, creativity, and problem-solving as they navigate their projects.
– Outdoor Inspiration: Many crafts encourage outdoor exploration, connecting children with nature while they gather materials like leaves and rocks.
– Endless Entertainment: These projects are designed to keep kids busy for hours, offering a productive alternative to screen time during the sunny summer days.
1. Nature Mandalas
Bring the outdoors in with vibrant Nature Mandalas! This engaging craft invites kids to collect leaves, flowers, and stones to design beautiful mandala patterns. Not only does this encourage a deeper appreciation for nature, but it also sparks creativity and mindfulness as they create. A nature walk in the park can be a delightful way to gather materials, and then arranging them on cardboard turns into a fun art project.
Make it a friendly competition to see who can create the most stunning mandala. Afterward, snap pictures of their creations, or even frame them to showcase as unique art pieces in your home!
Here’s what you’ll need:
– Leaves, flowers, pebbles, and twigs
– Cardboard or a sturdy plate
– Optional: Glue for a lasting design
Tips:
– Discuss different types of mandalas and their meanings while crafting.
– Use a variety of colors and textures from the collected natural items.
This activity is perfect for teaching kids about symmetry and patterns while celebrating the beauty that nature provides.
Nature Mandalas turn a simple outdoor stroll into a creative experiment for kids crafts. Gather leaves, petals, and stones, then arrange them into colorful patterns. It’s mindful, hands-on fun that kids actually want to repeat week after week.
Nature Mandalas
Editor’s Choice
2. DIY Tie-Dye T-Shirts
Nothing screams summer like colorful tie-dye t-shirts! This classic craft is a fantastic way for kids to experiment with colors and patterns. Gather some plain, light-colored cotton t-shirts, fabric dye, and rubber bands to start.
Begin by twisting or folding the t-shirt in various ways and securing it with rubber bands. Let the kids unleash their creativity as they apply vibrant dyes. Watching the colors blend is always a thrilling experience!
Once the shirts have set for a few hours, rinse and dry them to reveal their unique designs. Each shirt turns into a personal masterpiece, perfect for showcasing on summer outings.
Supplies needed:
– Plain cotton t-shirts
– Fabric dye in various colors
– Rubber bands
– Plastic gloves
– Water
Step-by-step guide:
1. Prepare your workspace with plastic coverings.
2. Wet the shirt slightly and twist it into your desired design.
3. Secure it with rubber bands.
4. Apply fabric dye with squeeze bottles.
5. Let the t-shirts sit for 6-8 hours.
6. Rinse and let dry completely.
This activity not only boosts creativity but results in wearable art kids can proudly flaunt all summer long.
How To Choose Kids Crafts for Summer
When summer rolls around, finding engaging activities for your kids is essential. With countless options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the best kids crafts. Here’s a guide to help you make the right decisions for fun and creativity!
1. Age Appropriateness
Choose projects that fit your child’s age and skill level. Younger kids may enjoy simple crafts, like paper plate animals, which require basic skills. Older children can handle more complex tasks, such as DIY bird feeders. Always ensure the activity matches their abilities to keep them engaged and safe.
2. Materials Available
Check what materials you already have at home. If you have a stash of colored paper, paints, or recycled materials, select crafts that use them. For example, painted rock animals can utilize stones from your yard, while DIY tie-dye t-shirts require fabric and dye. Using what you have can save time and money!
3. Duration and Engagement
Consider how long the craft will keep your kids busy. Projects that take several hours, like summer scrapbooks, are great for keeping kids occupied during long afternoons. If you want a quick activity, suncatchers with nature materials can be completed in under an hour. Pick crafts that fit the time you have available.
4. Creative Freedom
Look for crafts that allow kids to express their creativity. Projects like friendship bracelets or clay sculptures encourage children to use their imagination. When they can choose colors, shapes, or designs, it fosters a sense of ownership in their work, making the experience more enjoyable.
5. Themes and Interests
Incorporate your child’s interests into their craft projects. If they love animals, opt for painted rock animals or DIY bird feeders. If they enjoy the outdoors, nature mandalas or DIY kites can be exciting. Aligning crafts with their passions can spark enthusiasm and keep them engaged.
6. Clean-up Considerations
Think about the clean-up process involved in each craft. Some projects can be messy, like bubble wrap printing or tie-dyeing. Make sure you have the tools and space to handle spills or stains. Prepare a designated area for messy crafts, and involve your kids in the clean-up to teach responsibility.
Pro Tip: Keep a variety of materials on hand for spontaneous crafting. Having different colored papers, buttons, and natural items available can inspire your kids and lead to creative combinations. Let them explore and experiment!
Choosing the right kids crafts for summer involves considering age appropriateness, available materials, and your child’s interests. By following these guidelines, you can create meaningful experiences that nurture creativity and keep your kids happily occupied for hours! 🖍️✨
3. Painted Rock Animals
Painted rock animals are a whimsical way for kids to show off their creativity! Using smooth rocks found in your garden or nearby creek, children can paint their favorite animals or let their imaginations run wild. All you need are some acrylic paints and brushes.
Encourage kids to think creatively—how about a purple turtle or a polka-dotted owl? After painting, seal the rocks with a clear coat to make them durable, so they can be used as garden decor or fun paperweights.
This craft enhances fine motor skills and sparks imaginative play as children create stories around their painted animals.
What you’ll need:
– Smooth, clean rocks
– Acrylic paints in various colors
– Paintbrushes
– Clear sealant spray
Instructions:
1. Choose your rock and decide on an animal or creature to paint.
2. Paint the base color and allow it to dry.
3. Add details such as eyes and patterns.
4. Seal with a clear coat once dry.
These colorful creations will not only brighten up any outdoor space but also make wonderful gifts for friends and family!
📹 Related Video: Quiet little owl by Rachel’s Rocks
4. Suncatchers with Nature
Create beautiful suncatchers using natural elements like leaves, flowers, and twigs. This craft is simple yet brilliantly showcases the wonders of nature. You’ll need contact paper, scissors, and the natural materials you’ve collected. Start by cutting out two pieces of contact paper; one will act as the base.
Kids can arrange their nature finds on the first piece and then cover them with the second piece of contact paper. Hang these near a window, and watch as sunlight creates colorful shadows around the room. Not only are these suncatchers stunning, but they also encourage kids to appreciate the beauty of their environment.
Materials needed:
– Contact paper
– Scissors
– Natural materials (leaves, flowers)
Steps:
1. Cut two pieces of contact paper into the desired shape.
2. Stick the first piece to a flat surface.
3. Arrange natural materials on top.
4. Seal with the second piece of contact paper.
5. Trim the edges if desired, and hang by the window.
Kids will love seeing their creations light up the room as the sunlight changes throughout the day!
5. DIY Bird Feeders
Get kids involved with nature through DIY bird feeders! This fun craft combines creativity with environmental awareness. You can easily make bird feeders using recyclable materials like toilet paper rolls, peanut butter, and birdseed.
Spread peanut butter over the outer surface of the roll, then roll it in birdseed to coat it thoroughly. Tie a string through the top and hang it from a tree branch. This project not only keeps kids entertained but also attracts birds to your backyard, allowing for educational observations of various bird species.
Ingredients:
– Toilet paper rolls or pine cones
– Peanut butter
– Birdseed
– String
Instructions:
1. Spread peanut butter on the outer surface of the roll.
2. Roll it in birdseed until fully coated.
3. Tie a string through the top.
4. Hang from a tree branch.
This activity teaches kids about wildlife and creates a fun hands-on experience. Plus, watching the birds visit is a rewarding bonus for their hard work!
6. Paper Plate Animals
Let your child’s creativity shine with adorable paper plate animals! This easy craft is a fantastic way to recycle leftover materials. Gather a variety of paper plates, paints, colored paper, scissors, and glue.
Kids can paint the plates to represent their favorite animals—be it a lion, panda, or butterfly. Once dry, they can add features using colored paper for ears, eyes, and other details. This activity encourages imaginative play as kids create stories around their crafted animal characters!
Materials required:
– Paper plates
– Paints and brushes
– Colored paper
– Scissors
– Glue
Steps:
1. Paint the paper plate in the base color.
2. Allow it to dry, then cut out animal features from colored paper.
3. Glue the features onto the plate to create the animal.
4. Add any additional decorations if desired.
This craft is perfect for group activities, allowing kids to showcase their creativity while sharing fun animal stories together.
7. Friendship Bracelets
Friendship bracelets are a cherished craft that kids enjoy! This activity is perfect for enhancing fine motor skills while sharing the joy of creating something special for friends. You’ll need embroidery floss or yarn in different colors, scissors, and some tape or a clipboard to secure the strings while they work.
Teach kids how to braid or knot the strings into unique patterns. They can make matching bracelets for themselves and their friends, adding a personal touch to this timeless craft. Not only does it encourage creativity, but it also promotes friendship and connection.
What you’ll need:
– Embroidery floss or yarn
– Scissors
– Tape or clipboard for securing
Instructions:
1. Cut several strands of embroidery floss in your desired lengths.
2. Arrange them together and secure the top with tape or under a clipboard.
3. Start braiding or knotting the strings into fun patterns.
4. Once complete, tie a knot and trim excess.
These bracelets can be meaningful gifts and a way to celebrate special summer friendships.
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8. Clay Sculptures
Dive into creativity with clay sculptures! Kids love molding and shaping clay into their favorite figures or imaginative creations. Use air-dry clay or polymer clay, available at craft stores. This hands-on experience is perfect for developing fine motor skills and encourages storytelling through art.
Let kids create anything from animals to imaginative creatures. Once finished, they can add a splash of color by painting their sculptures. Not only is this craft engaging, but it also allows kids to express their individuality through their artistic endeavors.
Materials:
– Air-dry clay or polymer clay
– Rolling pins and sculpting tools
– Paints for decoration
Steps:
1. Take a chunk of clay and mold it into a basic shape.
2. Use sculpting tools to add details.
3. Allow the sculpture to dry if using air-dry clay or bake if using polymer clay.
4. Once hardened, paint the sculpture as desired.
This craft is ideal for sensory play, allowing children to explore textures and shapes while crafting their unique masterpieces.
9. Watercolor Resist Art
Experience the magic of watercolor resist art! Kids can use crayons or oil pastels to create patterns on thick paper. Once they finish, they paint over the entire design with watercolors. The wax in the crayons will resist the paint, revealing their colorful artwork underneath.
This craft is visually stunning and helps children understand color mixing and the concept of resist art. As the paint glides over the crayon, they’ll be amazed to see their drawings come alive!
Materials needed:
– Thick watercolor paper
– Crayons or oil pastels
– Watercolor paints and brushes
Instructions:
1. Use crayons or oil pastels to draw on the paper.
2. Once finished, allow it to dry briefly.
3. Paint over the entire surface with watercolors.
4. Watch as the colors reveal the underlying design.
This craft blends art and science, making it an educational and entertaining experience for children!
10. DIY Kites
Build and fly your own kites for a fun-filled outdoor activity combining crafting and play! Kids can use lightweight materials like plastic bags, wooden dowels, and string. Start by cutting the plastic into a diamond shape and attach it to the wooden frame. Decorate it with markers or paint for a personal touch.
Once complete, take your kites to an open space and watch them soar! This craft teaches basic engineering principles while providing plenty of exercise and excitement.
Materials:
– Plastic bags or colorful paper
– Wooden dowels
– String
– Tape or glue
Steps:
1. Cut the plastic into a diamond shape.
2. Create a frame with the wooden dowels.
3. Attach the plastic to the frame using tape or glue.
4. Tie a string to the bottom and decorate as desired.
5. Fly your kite in an open area!
Flying kites is a joyous way to spend time outdoors, making summer days even more memorable.
DIY Kites
Editor’s Choice
11. Garden Stick Markers
Personalize your garden with whimsical garden stick markers! Using popsicle sticks, kids can paint or decorate them to label their favorite plants. This craft is a fun way for them to learn about gardening while showcasing their creativity.
Start by gathering popsicle sticks and some outdoor paint or permanent markers. Kids can write the name of each plant or design cute illustrations. Once dry, place the markers in your garden or flower pots to keep track of their plants while adding a burst of color to the greenery.
What you’ll need:
– Popsicle sticks
– Outdoor paint or permanent markers
Step-by-step guide:
1. Decorate the popsicle sticks with paint or markers.
2. Write the names of the plants or draw fun designs.
3. Let them dry completely.
4. Stick them into the soil of the matching plants.
This project makes gardening an engaging experience and strengthens kids’ connection to nature.
Garden Stick Markers
Editor’s Choice
12. Summer Scrapbook
Encourage kids to document their summer adventures with a creative scrapbook! Collect photos, ticket stubs, leaves, and other memorabilia from summer outings. They can use colored paper, stickers, and markers to decorate the pages, making each memory come alive.
This craft not only preserves summer memories but also fosters storytelling skills as they narrate their experiences. It’s a fantastic activity for rainy days or family gatherings, and you can work together to compile the scrapbook.
Materials required:
– A blank scrapbook or loose sheets of paper
– Glue and scissors
– Photos and memorabilia from summer outings
– Colored paper, markers, and stickers
Instructions:
1. Gather all summer memorabilia and photos.
2. Arrange items on a blank page.
3. Glue them down and add decorations.
4. Write captions or stories to accompany the photos.
Creating a scrapbook is a wonderful way for kids to reflect on their summer experiences while having a keepsake to cherish for years!
Summer scrapbooks are daily adventures you can hold in your hand. Gather photos, leaves, and ticket stubs together—then decorate with stickers and markers; kids crafts become easier and more meaningful when you do. It’s a simple, fun habit that boosts memory, storytelling, and family bonding.
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13. Bubble Wrap Printing
Transform bubble wrap into a creative printing tool for colorful art! This simple craft is loads of fun. Kids can paint the bubble wrap in vibrant colors and press it onto paper to create cool textures and patterns.
Experiment with different colors and techniques to see the fantastic prints that emerge! It’s an enjoyable way to blend art and science, allowing children to explore the effects of pressure and paint types on their creations.
Materials needed:
– Bubble wrap
– Paints and paintbrushes
– Thick paper
Steps:
1. Cut a piece of bubble wrap to a manageable size.
2. Paint the bubbles with different colors.
3. Press the bubble wrap onto the paper to create prints.
4. Let the prints dry completely.
This craft is perfect for hot summer days, allowing kids to have fun while experimenting with colors!
Bubble Wrap Printing
Editor’s Choice
14. DIY Snow Globes
Bring winter vibes to summer with DIY snow globes! This magical craft lets kids create whimsical scenes encapsulated in glass. All you need are clear jars, glitter, and small figurines that fit inside.
Kids can choose their favorite toy or character to place inside, fill it with water, and sprinkle in some glitter for a snowy effect. Once sealed, give the jar a shake and watch the glitter swirl! This activity promotes imaginative play and storytelling.
Materials required:
– Clear jars with lids
– Small figurines
– Glitter or fake snow
– Water
Steps:
1. Place the figurine inside the jar.
2. Fill with water, leaving some space at the top.
3. Add glitter or fake snow.
4. Secure the lid tightly.
5. Shake and enjoy!
This magical craft is a fun way to bring a piece of winter into the sunny days of summer, sparking excitement and creativity in children.
15. DIY Musical Instruments
Let the music flow with DIY musical instruments! Kids can create their own instruments using everyday items—think maracas from plastic bottles, drums from tins, or shakers from sealed containers filled with rice or beans.
This craft inspires creativity and encourages kids to explore rhythm and sound. Once made, they can put on a mini-concert for the family, showcasing their musical creations. It’s a fantastic way to introduce kids to music and rhythm through hands-on crafting.
Materials needed:
– Plastic bottles, cans, or cardboard tubes
– Rice, beans, or small pebbles for sound
– Tape and markers for decoration
Instructions:
1. Gather materials to create your instrument.
2. Fill containers with sound-making items and secure tightly.
3. Decorate with tape or markers.
4. Start making music!
This craft combines art and music, giving kids a chance to express themselves in a fun way while learning about sound and rhythm!
Making DIY Musical Instruments turns living room chaos into concert rehearsal—kids crafts that actually spark rhythm, not mess. When they build with everyday items, they learn creativity, STEM basics, and teamwork, one homemade drum at a time.
DIY Musical Instruments
Editor’s Choice
Conclusion
These 15 kids crafts for summer are not only fun but also foster creativity, imagination, and valuable skills. Each project encourages children to explore their artistic side while spending quality time with family and friends. Whether it’s building, painting, or crafting, these activities promise to keep kids engaged and entertained all summer long. So gather your supplies, get crafty, and make some unforgettable memories this summer!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easy and super fun kids crafts for summer that will keep them busy for hours?
Here are a few easy, super fun kids crafts that can entertain them for hours this summer. Start with a simple supplies list: construction paper, kid-safe scissors, glue sticks, crayons or markers, tape, and a few recyclables. Try these beginner-friendly projects: tissue-paper sun catchers you hang in a window; DIY paper bead bracelets using rolled strips of paper; and a cardboard city or fortress made from boxes and tape. Quick steps: set up a dedicated craft corner, let kids pick colors and add their own twists, and proudly display the finished pieces. Tips for success include painting outside with washable supplies and keeping a scraps bin for future ideas. This is a great way to nurture creativity and kids crafts as part of summer projects.
How can I plan a week of summer projects using crafts to keep kids creatively engaged?
Plan a simple, reusable schedule that keeps the energy high. Try theme days like Nature Week, Ocean Week, and Outer Space Week, each paired with a related summer project or two. Put together a ready-to-go craft kit box with basic supplies and a few reusable materials. Let kids vote on projects for the week and rotate roles so everyone helps with setup, cleanup, and display. Include outdoor time and short reading breaks, and finish the week with a mini gallery where they share their favorite kids crafts. This approach makes creativity the centerpiece and keeps summer projects exciting and manageable.
What materials work best for beginner-friendly kids crafts and how can I keep cleanup easy and eco-friendly?
For beginner-friendly kids crafts, stick to simple, affordable materials: plain paper, crayons or markers, glue sticks, tape, kid-safe scissors, and a stash of recyclables like cardboard tubes and jar lids. Choose projects that use minimal tools and reusable supplies, such as paper collages, sticker mosaics, simple bead bracelets, and cardboard organizers. Set up a washable workspace with a plastic table cover, a wipeable mat, and a nearby trash bin. For eco-friendly options, repurpose scrap fabric, use recyclable containers, and opt for washable paints when possible. Cleanup tips: sort scraps into reuse piles and store supplies in clear bins so cleanup is quick and mess-free.
How can I adapt summer crafts for kids of different ages or abilities?
Crafts are naturally adaptable. Pair an older child with a younger one to share ideas and build teamwork. Offer adjustable difficulty: simple shapes and large pieces for younger kids, plus added details or counting tasks for older ones. Provide sensory-friendly options for kids with sensitivities and use tools with grips or larger handles. Choose projects with multiple entry points—color a base and add details, or design a story around a sculpture—so every child can contribute. This approach keeps creativity accessible to all and makes summer projects enjoyable for kids of varied ages and abilities.
How can crafts boost creativity and learning during summer for kids?
Crafts are a wonderful way to boost creativity and practical learning all season. They strengthen fine motor skills, promote problem-solving, and invite kids to tell stories about what they’re making. Tie crafts to learning moments: count beads or color cards for a math warm-up, sort pieces by shape for early geometry, or write a short story to accompany a sculpture. Start a simple craft journal where kids sketch ideas and note what they enjoy. End with a small home gallery so kids see their progress and feel proud of their kids crafts and creativity in action.
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