Kids adore making crafts where an ordinary object becomes something exciting. Watching a simple plastic cup shrink in the oven turning it into an ornament gives children a sense of wonder and control over the creation process. Children also love rituals. So making Christmas ornaments gives them a seasonal tradition to look forward to every […]
Shining Stars for Hanukkah
To prepare for Hanukkah have the kids make a Star of David Sun Catcher! With just a 6 point paper star, tissue paper squares, and self-laminating sheets kids can craft a colorful reminder that the Festival of Lights is all about joy, creativity, and bright hearts. This sun catcher project is simple, sweet, and perfect […]
“The Tree That’s Meant to Be” and Pine Cone Christmas Tree Craft
In “The Tree That’s Meant to Be” by Yuval Zommer, a small, crooked fir tree is left all alone after the others near it in the forest are chosen by families as Christmas to bring home. But when the forest animals gather around the lonely little tree to cheer it up and celebrate the season, […]
Thankful Wreath for Thanksgiving
Each year I have the children in my care make a Thankful Wreath to show what they are grateful for as Thanksgiving approaches. Teaching children to be thankful, generous, and kind is a lifelong process, and one that involves many friends and family to help develop. Hang the wreath to proudly display what the child […]
Autumn Indian Corn Craft
Little hands love making this colorful Indian corn craft made from chenille stems and pony beads found at One Little Project. It’s the perfect mix of creativity and fine motor skill fun. It is part art project, part sensory play, and all-around adorable. Read the children’s books listed below about corn as the kids get […]
Turkey Sun Catcher for Thanksgiving
There’s something magical about watching sunlight shine through this simple child’s handmade Turkey Sun Catcher for Thanksgiving. Maybe it’s the burst of color, maybe it’s the pride in the child’s smile — but somehow, this simple craft captures the warmth and joy of Thanksgiving perfectly. These colorful little turkeys don’t just brighten up windows, they […]
Autumn Salt Painting
Salt painting is a fun and easy art activity that combines glue, salt, and watercolor to create textured, colorful designs. Kids love watching the bright colors dance and spread across the glittery salt lines right before their eyes! But don’t move the paper while it’s wet — salt paintings are delicate until dry! You Will […]
Free Halloween Activity Printables
Whether you’re wrangling toddlers or entertaining a crew of candy-fueled kiddos, these free Halloween printables from thebestideasforkids.com are your secret weapon as the best nanny. From spooky Scavenger Hunts to Bingo and an I Spy game, they’re mess-free, screen-free, and 100% fun. Just print, play, and let the Halloween magic begin! You Will Need: Printer […]
Why Kids Love Making Monster Slime for Halloween
There’s something magical about gooey, monster slime that turns every kid into a mad scientist. Whether it’s the squish, the stretch, or the spooky surprises hidden inside, sensory monster slime is a fun hands-on Halloween project all kids will love making! You Will Need: Craft Mat or Disposable Plastic Tablecloth1/2 cup Clear or White School […]
Monster Corner Bookmarks for Halloween
Why settle for boring bookmarks when you can craft a spooky monster corner one’s from paper and envelopes? Perfect for Halloween, these little monsters will not only keep little one’s place in their book but also add some fang-tastic fun to their Halloween reading! You Will Need: EnvelopesConstruction PaperScissorsMarkers, Sharpie Markers, or Colored PencilsGlue Stick […]