Every Nanny or Babysitter needs in their “Tool-Kit” great craft activities to turn an at home day into a regular Mary Poppins-eque affair! We’ve gathered a few great go-tos that use common household items or basics that a quick trip to KMart or a Craft Store can help tick off!
1. FAIRY GARDEN
Have the kids take on this whimsical project, and watch their imagination take off!
What you’ll need:
- Planter or pot
- Dirt
- Rocks
- Birdhouse
- Planting tools
Original source: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com
2. EGG CARTON CATERPILLARS
This is an egg- craft activity for the little ones to express their creativity.
What you’ll need:
- Empty egg carton
- Scissors
- Googly Eyes
- Washable Markers
- Pipe Cleaners
- Pom-Poms (AKA “puffy balls”)
- Glue
Original source: http://www.creativegreenliving.com
3. POM POM RAINBOW
Practice identifying colours with young children while creating a rainbow kid’s craft.
What you’ll need:
- Rainbow colour pompoms
- Glue stick
- White Paper
- Markers
Original source: https://www.thecanvasfactory.com.au
4. BUBBLE PAINTING
Perfect for creating unusual paintings, this activity combines two things that kids love for an afternoon of messy fun.
What you’ll need:
- A bowl/container
- 2 tablespoons tempera/poster paint
- 2 tablespoons dish soap
- 1 tablespoon water
- Straw/s
- Paper or cardboard
Original source: https://www.happinessishomemade.net
5. HOMEMADE RAIN STICK
Spend the morning making rainsticks, and the afternoon creating your own music and fun sounds exploring sessions!
What You’ll Need
- Sturdy cardboard tube (Like an aluminum foil roll)
- Paint
- Large, brown paper grocery bag
- Coloured Wool
- Rubber bands
- Scissors
- Pipe cleaners and/or craft wire
- Beads, rice, beans, or other material for inside the rainstick
Original source: https://buggyandbuddy.com/how-to-make-a-rainstick-instrument/
Take it to the next step and organise your own craft trolley that you can easily pack with you on days when indoor play is on the agenda! The little lovelies will thank you, and their parents will love seeing these adorable creations!