Tag: family crafts

Ideas for Keeping Kids Busy on Thanksgiving Day

Are you hosting a large Thanksgiving dinner this year? Do you have a lot of extended family or friends with children coming over for your holiday meal? Keeping kids busy on Thanksgiving can be a fun and engaging experience. If you are searching for inspiration, check out the following ideas for keeping kids busy on Thanksgiving Day.

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Please note: “As an Amazon affiliate, I earn income from qualifying purchases.”

  1. Craft Activities: Set up a craft station with age-appropriate supplies for making Thanksgiving-themed crafts. If you need help finding craft ideas, use Pinterest. like handprint turkeys, paper plate pilgrims, or gratitude journals.
  2. Cooking and Baking: Ask kids to help in the kitchen with age-appropriate cooking or baking tasks. Children learn by doing. Using measuring cups and spoons is a wonderful learning experience. Children can decorate cookies or create their own mini pies. If they want, let them help.
  3. Scavenger Hunt: Organize a Thanksgiving-themed scavenger hunt with clues and small prizes, encouraging kids to explore and discover items related to the holiday. Depending on the number of children, create two teams for the scavenger hunt.
  4. Outdoor Activities: If the weather is nice, consider outdoor activities like a nature walk or football game.
  5. Movie Time: Host a family movie marathon with Thanksgiving-themed films or animated classics that kids can enjoy. If you want to kick off the Christmas season early, watch Christmas classics, such as Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer or A Charlie Brown Christmas.
  6. Storytelling: Encourage kids to share their own stories or listen to age-appropriate Thanksgiving tales. Ask older children to write down their stories. They can help younger ones write out their tales. Save the stories. They make long-lasting memories and are great for a scrapbook.
  7. Table Setting: Let children help set the Thanksgiving table with special decorations. Ask the kids to create name cards and placemats for everyone.
  8. Gratitude Activity: Have kids write or draw what they are thankful for on paper leaves, which can be added to a “gratitude tree” or displayed as part of the table centerpiece.
  9. Games: If the weather is not suitable for going outdoors, board games, card games, and puzzles are great indoor options. Set up an area for the games to keep kids entertained while waiting for the Thanksgiving meal.
  10. Volunteer Work: Teach kids the importance of giving back by involving them in volunteer activities like preparing food for a local shelter or making cards for seniors.

Remember to balance structured activities with downtime. Children need time just for them. The holidays are also a time for relaxation and family bonding. Enjoy every moment. Happy Thanksgiving!

Fun Thanksgiving Traditions to Start this Year

Are you thinking ahead to Thanksgiving? Do you want to start a new tradition this year with your family and friends? If you are searching for inspiration, consider the following fun Thanksgiving traditions to start this year.

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  1. Gratitude Jar: Have each person who is attending Thanksgiving write down things they are thankful for on slips of paper. Place all the notes in a gratitude jar. Pick a person to read them aloud during Thanksgiving dinner.
  2. Turkey Trot: Participate in or organize a “Turkey Trot” or a fun run on Thanksgiving morning. The early morning activity is a great way to stay active before the big meal.
  3. Thanksgiving Crafts: Set up a crafting station. Use a corner table and place crafting supplies for making Thanksgiving-themed decorations, place cards, or handprint turkeys with the kids. Not only is this a fun activity but young children focus on the crafts while you concentrate on the meal.
  4. Recipe Swap: Do you have mostly adults attending your Thanksgiving meal this year? Ask each family member or friend to bring a dish from a different culture, creating a diverse Thanksgiving meal. Also, ask each family person to bring the recipe to share with others.
  5. Football Game: Play touch or flag football in the backyard. If the weather is too cold,  watch a football game together.
  6. Thanksgiving Movie Marathon: Choose some classic Thanksgiving-themed movies or family favorites. Thanksgiving weekend is a great time to start watching holiday classics. A movie marathon is the best way to relax after a big meal.
  7. Volunteer: Give back to the community by volunteering at a local shelter or food bank to help those in need. The experience is uplifting.
  8. Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt: Create a Thanksgiving-themed scavenger hunt around your home or backyard with clues and riddles. Place small trinkets as treasures. Children and those young at heart love searching for goodies.
  9. Gratitude Tree: Create a “gratitude tree” by placing a branch in a vase. Cut out paper leaves and attach strings on the end. Ask guests to write on the paper leaves. Write things you are thankful for or what you like most about this Thanksgiving.
  10. Thanksgiving Parade: Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on TV. Or, if available, consider attending a local Thanksgiving parade. Being outdoors is a great way to start your Thanksgiving holiday. Many Thanksgiving parades end with a visit from Santa Claus.
  11. Family Photo Session: Take lots of photos. Capture your day with candid photos. Ask for group photos too. Organize a photo booth with props for fun pictures.
  12. Board Games: Play board games or card games together after the meal. Even set up games at the kid’s table.

Choose the traditions that best suit your interests. Make Thanksgiving a memorable and enjoyable day for everyone. Happy Thanksgiving!

Drawing Prompts for November

November is almost here. Are you ready for a new month? Are you looking forward to drawing on cold nights. If you are searching for inspiration, check out the following drawing prompts for November.

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  1. November Self-Portrait
  2. Book Cover
  3. One Color
  4. Fantasy
  5. Time
  6. Firefighter
  7. Insects
  8. Squirrel
  9. Feathers
  10. On the Ground
  11. Veteran
  12. Park
  13. Statue
  14. Bright Colors
  15. In the Air
  16. Birds
  17. Weather
  18. Cabin
  19. Path
  20. Bouquet
  21. Family and Friends
  22. Home
  23. Thanksgiving
  24. Favorite Things
  25. Shapes
  26. Medieval
  27. Castle
  28. Lines
  29. Travel Destination
  30. Artist’s Choice

Have a fabulous month! Happy drawing!

10 Fall Equinox Activities for Kids

The Autumn Equinox is almost here. Do you want to do something special with your kids to welcome the fall season? If you are searching for inspiration, check out the following fall equinox activities that kids might enjoy.

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  1. Nature Scavenger Hunt: Make a list of fall-themed items for kids to find outdoors. Remember to only collect items in allowed areas. Use small brown paper lunch sacks or recyclable bags to collect your nature items including acorns, pinecones, and brightly colored leaves.
  2. Leaf Art: Collect colorful fall leaves and use them to create crafts. (If you did the nature scavenger hunt first, use your findings for leaf art). Ideas for leaf art include rubbings, collages, or pressing the leaves for decorations.
  3. Apple Picking Your Local Orchard: Visit an apple orchard or cider mill for a fun day of picking apples. Most orchards or cider mills host a variety of family-friendly activities during the autumn season. Later use your apples to bake homemade treats.
  4. Pumpkin Decorating: Visit a pumpkin patch to find the perfect one to decorate. Use paints, markers, and other craft supplies to decorate pumpkins.
  5. Fall-Themed Baking: Spend an afternoon in the kitchen. Bake seasonal treats for the whole family to enjoy. Pumpkin muffins, apple pies, or cinnamon-spiced cookies are great choices.
  6. Read: Visit your local library or bookstore to find fall-themed books. Read your fall-themed books aloud. Many books contain stories about changing leaves, harvest, or animals preparing for winter.
  7. Go for a Nature Walk: Take a leisurely walk at your local park or nature preserve to observe the changes in the environment during the fall season. For extra fun, pack a picnic. Enjoy a meal in the outdoors.
  8. Autumn Crafts: Create autumn-themed crafts. Pinterest is an excellent resource for finding kid-friendly crafts such as paper plate scarecrows, pinecone animals, or paper pumpkins.
  9. Star Gazing: Get outdoors and look up at the stars. If needed, drive away from the city lights to find the best area for star gazing. Pack a thermos full of hot cocoa. And enjoy an evening under the stars.
  10. Bonfire: Host a bonfire night. Sit outdoors and enjoy the warmth of a cozy bonfire on a cool autumn evening.

Remember to adjust the autumn-themed activities based on the age of your child. Try to do activities that interest your kids. Have fun and enjoy celebrating the fall equinox as a family event.

Art Projects: Collages

Are you looking for an open-ended art project for your child (or yourself)? Creating collages is a great way to expand your child’s imagination and work on fine motor skills. Use pre-cut designs, construction paper, poster boards, or other sturdy materials for your base. Then, add collage materials with glue to create unique designs.

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Please note: “As an Amazon affiliate, I earn income from qualifying purchases.”

If you are searching for ideas on the types of collage materials, check out the following for inspiration.

  1. Magazine cutouts
  2. Foam cutout shapes
  3. Newspaper clippings
  4. Fabric scraps
  5. Felt scrap pieces
  6. Dried beans or peas
  7. Macaroni or other noodles
  8. Old book pages
  9. Photos
  10. Wrapping paper
  11. Construction paper pieces
  12. Washi tape
  13. Stickers
  14. Postcards
  15. Travel pamphlets
  16. Ribbons and bows
  17. Paint swatches
  18. Buttons
  19. Feathers
  20. Maps
  21. Torn paper pieces
  22. Tissue paper
  23. Cellophane
  24. String or yarn
  25. Aluminum foil
  26. Candy wrappers
  27. Sequins
  28. Glitter

Providing your child with different art materials is a great way to create unique and exciting collages. The combination of materials is limitless.

77 Drawing Prompts for Harry Potter’s Birthday

Are you a big fan of the Harry Potter series written by J.K. Rowling? Every Potterhead knows that July 31st is the birthday of both the author, J.K. Rowling, and the beloved character, Harry Potter.

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If you are searching for an easy activity for a Harry Potter-themed night, drawing is the perfect solution. Whether you’re drawing alone or with your family and friends, the possibilities are endless. Check out the following drawing prompts for Harry Potter’s birthday for inspiration.

  1. Self-Portrait at Hogwarts
  2. Birthday Cake
  3. Scar
  4. Glasses
  5. Letter
  6. Ticket
  7. Platform 9 3/4
  8. Hogwarts Express
  9. Train Compartment
  10. Trolley
  11. Chocolate Frog
  12. Trunk
  13. Shopping
  14. Favorite Store in Diagon Alley
  15. Wand
  16. Books
  17. Ink and Quill
  18. Cauldron
  19. Robes
  20. Supplies
  21. Wizarding Bank
  22. Arriving at Hogwarts
  23. Sorting Hat
  24. Your House
  25. Crest
  26. Broomstick
  27. Nimbus 2000
  28. Quidditch
  29. Golden Snitch
  30. Troll
  31. Ghosts
  32. Positions
  33. Favorite Professor
  34. Headmaster
  35. Feast
  36. Butterbeer
  37. Dormitory
  38. Common Room
  39. Owl
  40. Greenhouses
  41. Mandrake
  42. Mirror Erised
  43. Dementor
  44. Astronomy Tower
  45. Peeves
  46. Hippogriff
  47. Fang
  48. Hagrid’s Hut
  49. Hagrid
  50. Library
  51. Favorite Class
  52. Favorite Character
  53. Favorite Scene from a Movie or Book
  54. Holidays at Hogwarts
  55. Pygmy Puff
  56. Weasley’s Clock
  57. Burrow
  58. Whopping Willow
  59. Shrieking Shack
  60. Hogsmeade
  61. Flying Motorcycle
  62. House Elf
  63. S.P.E.W
  64. Magical Beasts
  65. Basilisk
  66. Triwizard Cup
  67. Dragons
  68. Maze
  69. Golden Egg
  70. Horcruxes
  71. Patronus
  72. Yule Ball
  73. Golden Trio
  74. Deathly Hallows Symbol
  75. Favorite Movie
  76. Favorite Book
  77. Harry Potter

Have fun! Keep drawing!

Drawing Prompts for the 4th of July

Are you ready to celebrate Independence Day? Do you want to get in touch with your inner artist for the holiday? Drawing is a fun, family-friendly, and easy-to-start craft. If you are searching for inspiration, check out the following drawing prompts for the 4th of July.

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  1. Self-portrait with a 4th of July theme
  2. Red, White, & Blue
  3. American Flag
  4. Bald Eagle
  5. Statue of Liberty
  6. Liberty Bell
  7. Family
  8. Friends
  9. Face-Painted
  10. Barbeque
  11. Party Scene
  12. Grilling
  13. Food
  14. Dessert
  15. Ice Cream
  16. Picnic
  17. Picnic Basket
  18. Park
  19. Pinwheel
  20. Patriotic
  21. Parade
  22. Parade Float
  23. Marching Band
  24. Waving Flags
  25. Historical Moments
  26. Signing the Declaration of Independence
  27. Silhouettes Against Patriotic Scene
  28. Sparklers
  29. Fireworks
  30. Fireworks Display
  31. Artist’s Choice

Happy 4th of July! Have a wonderful holiday! Keep drawing!

7 Ideas to Entertain Kids During Your 4th of July Party

Are you ready to have a fun-filled 4th of July? Family, friends, and lots of food are generally the best way to celebrate the holiday. Keeping children entertained throughout the festivities requires creativity. If you are searching for ideas to entertain kids during your 4th of July party, check out the following.

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Please note: “As an Amazon affiliate, I earn income from qualifying purchases.” 

  1. Patriotic Crafts Table

Set up a table for a designated area where kids can make their own patriotic-themed art and crafts. Provide materials such as red, white, and blue construction paper, stickers, glitter, markers, and glue. They can create flags, patriotic scenes with fireworks, or even decorate their own party hats.

Ask parents to bring shirts to decorate for the 4th of July festivities. Supply markers to collect signatures of guests, tie-dye shirts, fringe and add beads to the sleeves, or paint patriotic designs.

2. DIY Fireworks Show

Do you have little ones attending the Independence Day celebrations? Organize safe and fun DIY fireworks for the kids. You can create a designated area where kids can “light up” their own mini fireworks. The area should always be under the supervision of a responsible adult.

  • Use glow sticks which are a safe alternative to fireworks. Glow sticks come in patriotic themes, various colors, and shapes.  Smaller kids love playing with them.
  • Use confetti poppers. Remember they leave a mess. But kids love seeing the confetti fly everywhere.
  • Handheld sparklers (with adult supervision) are a 4th of July tradition. Be careful. Have a metal bucket of water or sand to place the used sparklers in after use.

3. 4th of July Scavenger Hunt

Entertain older kids and teens with an Independence Day scavenger hunt. Create a scavenger hunt with clues and riddles related to American history and the 4th of July.

  • Hide small patriotic-themed items, glow sticks, or small toys around the party area for the kids to find.
  • Each find leads to another set of clues to find more prizes.
  • Provide larger prizes or treats for those who complete the scavenger hunt. Or end the hunt with a treasure chest full of fireworks and other fun activities to use for the rest of the day.

4. Water Balloon Piñatas

Most kids love water. And on a hot day, water balloon pinatas are a fantastic activity for kids of all ages.

  • Fill red, white, and blue water balloons and hang them from a tree in your yard. If you do not have a tree a sturdy pole or clothesline works.
  • Blindfold (optional) each child in turn and let them try to break the balloons with a plastic bat.
  • When the balloons break, water goes everywhere. This is a fun, refreshing, and exciting game for your 4th of July celebration.

5. United States Flag Relay Race

The United States Flag Relay race is a fun activity for large family gatherings.

  • Divide the kids into teams (try to make the teams equal with kids of different ages)
  • Set up a relay race where they must carry a small American flag from one point to another.
  • The race activities can include running, hopping, or skipping while carrying the flag.
  • For older kids make the race more challenging, including obstacle courses, ring toss, running longer paths, or balancing tasks.
  • Provide prizes or ribbons for the winners.

6. Patriotic Face Painting

Set up a face-painting station where kids can get their faces painted. Ask an artistic relative or friend to paint patriotic designs like stars, stripes, flags, or even bald eagle designs.

7. Red, White, and Blue Snacks for All

Prepare a dessert table filled with delicious treats in the colors of the American flag. For younger children, finger foods work the best.

  • Offer red, white, and blue cupcakes.
  • Fruit cups with strawberries, blueberries, and marshmallows.
  • Set out mini pies, Rice Krispie treats, or cookies decorated with patriotic sprinkles.

Happy 4th of July!  Enjoy the celebration of Independence Day with these creative ideas!

Drawing Prompts for June

June is here! The month ushers in the official start of summer and Father’s Day! Do you need a creative outlet? Drawing is an easy hobby to start. The possibilities are endless. If you are searching for inspiration, check out the following drawing prompts for June.

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  1. Self-portrait
  2. Favorite Hobby
  3. Beach Scene
  4. Mushroom
  5. Plant/Flowers
  6. Water Scene
  7. Favorite Place
  8. Book
  9. Animals
  10. Landscape
  11. Cityscape
  12. Colorful
  13. Family
  14. Cartoon Character
  15. Out the Window
  16. A Place You Want to Visit
  17. Caricature of Yourself
  18. Father’s Day (USA)
  19. Video Game
  20. Futuristic
  21. Historical
  22. Amusement Park
  23. New Planet
  24. Design a Statue
  25. Bridge
  26. Trees
  27. Keys
  28. Bugs
  29. Bees
  30. Artist’s Choice

Have a great month!

31 Ideas to Celebrate the Last Day of School

Time goes by quickly. In a blink of an eye, your child is an adult. Take the time to embrace the daily triumphs. The memories will last a lifetime.

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The end of every school year is a milestone in your child’s life. Not to mention, you deserve personal recognition for your hard work too. School schedules are sometimes hectic with last-minute snacks, homework help, field trips, parent-teacher conferences, fundraisers, and on some days simply getting your child to school on time.

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When the last day of school arrives, celebrate. Scheduling conflicts may not allow your celebration to occur exactly on the last day, still, take the time to recognize the accomplishment. The celebration can be a simple family dinner with a special dessert to a large party with your child’s friends.

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If you are uncertain how to celebrate the end of the school year, ask your child for input. Often your child’s idea may be something you would have never thought about as a fun way to celebrate. If you need inspiration, check out the following for ideas to celebrate the last day of school.

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  1. Special homemade family dinner (let your child pick the meal)
  2. Go out to eat.
  3. Bake a celebration cake.
  4. Make breakfast for dinner.
  5. Family game night.
  6. Plan a trip to the local bookstore to purchase books for summer reading.
  7. Host a backyard BBQ
  8. Pool party (if the weather permits)
  9. Backyard beach party
  10. Harry Potter theme party
  11. Comic book, Star Wars, princess, or other theme parties
  12. End of the school year theme party
  13. Trip to the local ice cream shop
  14. Spa day (This is a favorite with teens. Summer haircut, new nail color, or facial).
  15. Create a sundae bar in your kitchen. (Banana splits with all the toppings are a great way to celebrate).
  16. Make root beer floats.
  17. Pizza party
  18. Video game night
  19. Outdoor games party
  20. Go to a local, state, or federal park. (Don’t forget the picnic basket)
  21. Scavenger hunt
  22. Movie night
  23. Slumber party
  24. Picnic in your own backyard.
  25. Host a bonfire.
  26. Plan a trip to an amusement park.
  27. Attend a major or minor league baseball game or other sporting events
  28. Water balloon “fight” or other water-related activities.
  29. Hang a banner. (Small gestures have a major impact on your child).
  30. A card with a gift certificate to your child’s favorite place.
  31. Visit an art gallery or museum.

The end-of-school-year celebrations are a fun way to acknowledge a year of hard work. Have fun and enjoy summer vacation.