This summer I plan to indulge my toddler’s growing interest in all things art by creating many different projects together so that we can have fun while tapping into his creative side. And if you’re anything like me, when it comes to choosing what craft to do, you may end up spending more time finding the “perfect” one than your child actually spends making it. So to help save you busy mamas some precious time, I have scoured Pinterest for you and found a summer-inspired art project perfect for different ages to help you get started!
A CRAFT FOR INFANTS
Capture those adorable infant feet forever with this super cute and easy ice cream themed craft!
Materials Needed:
-Brown paper
-White paper
-3 different color baby safe paints
How to Create:
- Cut out a long triangle on the brown paper to resemble an ice cream cone; add details to the cone if you would like
- Paint the bottom of the baby’s foot with paint, push it down onto the white paper
- Repeatedly step 2 three times, each with a different color
- Cut around the feet (these will be the scoops!)
- Stack feet on top of the cone to create a 3 scoop ice cream cone!
How I would use this craft: Glue the cone onto an 8×10 piece of paper and then write baby’s name and the year on the bottom corner. Put it into a frame and use it as summer decor!
Idea found on Pinterest, pinned by Hannah Luebchow. Original origin unknown.
A CRAFT FOR TODDLERS:
Firework Painting Using Toilet Paper Rolls
Everyone knows toddlers love playing with household items so here’s a craft that channels that into something fun and creative!
Materials:
-Empty toilet paper rolls (ideally one for each color)
-Paper plates
-Kid safe paint (red, white, and blue)
-Black or white paper
How to Create:
- Take the toilet paper roll and cut a line about 2/3 up the roll
- Repeat cut every 1/2 inch around the roll on one side
- Bend the pieces out (it should look like a butterfly)
- Put each paint color on a different paper plate
- Have kids stamp the cut side of the roll into the paint and then onto paper to create fireworks!
How I would use this craft: I would take this idea and use fabric paint on a t-shirt. Not only is it fun, but then it makes for an adorable summer outfit!
Idea from Start at Home with Brooke Larsen at https://startathomedecor.com/
A CRAFT FOR SCHOOL-AGED KIDS:
Materials Needed:
-Black construction paper
-Sunscreen
-Paintbrush
-Stencils (optional)
How to Create:
- Have your child use the paintbrush and stencils (if you so choose) to paint a design on the construction paper using sunscreen as the “paint”
- Put the completed painting outside for about two hours
- Check and see how the sunscreen protected the paper!
How I would use this: I would use this as a learning opportunity about the importance and effectiveness of sunscreen. Talk to your child about how the sunscreen protects the paper just as it protects your skin. Additionally, you could use the designs to make fun greeting cards and then have your child practice their writing by writing letters to family members or friends!
Idea from Team Cartwright at https://team-cartwright.com/
Crafts are a fun, low-cost way to spend your summer days! Check out some more free and low-cost activities to spend your summer days around Indianapolis here.
