Winter holidays and vacations are fast approaching and the words, “I’m bored” are about to be heard repeatedly by parents and sitters already exhausted by work and holiday planning. Babysitters and parents alike can use a little help for entertaining the younger set this time of year, and these activities are suitable, adjustable and affordable for “kids” of all ages.
Stained “Glass” Windows
Using construction paper, scissors, tissue paper and a bit of water soluble glue like “Elmer’s,” designs can vary from simple single shape cut outs for five year olds to more elaborate snowflake or picture designs by teenagers.
- Use one sheet of construction paper (two, if the design will be hung where both sides are viewed) and cut open designs in the paper. If using the two-sided method make sure to hold both pieces securely together while cutting.
- Cut pieces of tissue paper (or cellophane if desired) slightly bigger than the holes in the construction paper using a variety of colors for best effect.
- Apply glue to the inner edges of the construction paper holes and paste the tissue or cellophane cutouts in place avoiding wrinkles, unless a crinkled look is desired, then wad tightly and un-wad the colored paper inserts before gluing.
- If the second sheet is chosen for the back, add a thin layer of glue and line up paper so that “windows” match. Placing underneath a book until glue dries will prevent the finished product from curling.
Mosaics
Colored popcorn or noodles, assorted beads or even candies can become awesome works of art too. By using the candies on cakes or cookies, young people can even have a hand in preparing treats for the endless parties of the season.
- Choose the medium to be decorated (paper, paper plates or cups, cookies, cake or cupcakes) and draw the design that you want to be filled in. Make sure open areas in the design are big enough to be filled with what ever you are using.
- If using cookies, cake or cupcakes make sure that the surface is frosted and that your design outline is visible enough for you to see it when filling it in.
- For smaller children it may be helpful for a grown up to draw their picture and out line it, with string glued on the paper or licorice ropes on cake. This helps them to stay in the lines and be more satisfied with “their” picture.
- Coloring book pages with larger pictures also make a great base for this project.
Projects done in holiday colors add to the festiveness of the season and children take great pride in knowing that they helped to create the holiday atmosphere too. These items also make great gifts for parents and grandparents and give young artists a sense of accomplishment while keeping them entertained.
Tips For Adults
- Protect table surfaces with a layer of newspaper or a cheap plastic tablecloth prior to allowing art projects.
- Use limited supplies and do only one project at each sitting for younger children. It prevents them from being overwhelmed and getting side tracked. Too many choices only create confusion.
- Let the kids know before they start that clean up is required when they are done. Have kids be active in the clean up no matter what their age. This is a good lesson that fun should be coupled with responsibility.
Whether you are looking for a way to keep the kids out from under your feet or you simply want some family time for bonding, these projects are sure to be a hit.
“I’m bored” doesn’t always have to be followed with, “You can always clean your room.”
