I've been really inspired lately by a concept known as "invitations to play". The steps involved are about as simple as they come: Find some interesting materials Lay them out in an appealing and accesible way Watch the children be drawn in like moths to a flame Recently I decided to try the technique with a mix of art materials and found nature objects. To add to the fun, I set everything up in our playroom while the kids were napping and just left it there for them to … [Read more...]
The Super-Sized-Mega-Big-Post on Playing with Shadows
photos via Small Types So I bet you're expecting a slew of shadow puppets and Halloween fun from this post, right? You won't be disappointed - there's TONS. That is, afterall, what sparked the idea for today's collection. But in tracking down lots of interesting shadow activities, I found a surprising number of ideas that don't involve puppets or jack-o-lanterns. In fact, I've found activities for every occasion - indoors, outdoors, daytime, nighttime, sun, or … [Read more...]
How to Have Fun Playing with Rocks
Happy Friday everyone. I have to start today with a great big THANK YOU! Not only have you all been voting for MPMK as Parent's Best Craft for Kids Blog (that's right, I said "you all" - the five years I spent in the South comes out when I get emotional), you've also been sending me some really sweet feedback. Here are a few excerpts from emails I've received this week, "My children are 8, 6, and 4. I'm a separated father and your craft ideas really enhance my quality time with my … [Read more...]
Found: 10 Ways to Have Fun with Clouds
Lately I've noticed an abundance of cumulonimbus coolness popping up... must be something in the air (sorry, I'm ridiculous, I know). Today I've got no less than 10 clever ways for you and your little ones to have fun with clouds. Whether you're looking for science, art, or just something fun to play with - I've got all the bases covered: Make DIY Clouds - Done in celebration of Eric Carle's Little Cloud, these DIY clouds are a great sensory activity for kids of all ages. Make … [Read more...]
Final Summer Fun: Pitching a Tent Out Back
Monday we did back-to-school, Tuesday was summer vacation, and yesterday back to school again so today it's time for summer vacation again - yay! Nothing says "summer break" to me more than a good 'ol fashion camping trip. Unfortunately, there's also nothing that says "nightmare" to me more than the idea of trying to camp with a baby. So instead of packing up the family and heading to the mountains, we did the next best thing and headed to the backyard. Actually my … [Read more...]
DIY Scavenger Hunts and I Spy Games
Scavenger hunts (whether outdoors, in the car, or just in the living room) are a perfect kid activity. Along with being a fun way to pass some time, they also provide children with opportunities to practice skills like observing, sorting, and classifying. Today I've rounded up 9 creative posts to help you get in on the fun. Click through for the goods. First up is this super simple nature scavenger hunt from Curly Birds. Head over for the easy instructions and free printable. You … [Read more...]