Okay, I'll be honest. I do NOT like doing crafts with my kids.
There. I said it.
I don't like dragging everything out... corralling the messes that inevitably happen... stressing over whether or not they were doing the craft the right way... cleaning everything up. The whole nine-yards, people. I just don't enjoy it.
However, I have learned some Lazy Mom Tips that have helped make crafting with kids a bit more enjoyable in life. And I'm here to share them with you.
You're welcome.
The first thing I've learned is to accept that my kids enjoy crafting. (Is it sad that I had to LEARN that?) And after accepting it, I began to realize that a total bonus to letting your kids craft, is that it does occupy them for a period of time. (Score!)
So here's how I've learned to cope with those two kids crafting conclusions:
Lazy Mom Problem #1 -- Don't like dragging everything out.
Check out my post on how I organized all our crafting/school/office supply type items into plastic drawer towers. This has helped with the whole "dragging everything out" problem. I don't mind it so much anymore, because these drawers can be pulled all the way out and brought up to the kitchen table for craft projects. And the kids can go get the drawers themselves since they know where everything is!
Problem #1 solved!
Lazy Mom Problem #2 -- Corralling the mess that inevitably happens.
Oh, my dear lazy moms! I have figured out how to keep that mess (mostly) contained! BROWN PAPER.
Yes, all you need is a roll of brown craft paper (it's rolled up like a roll of wrapping paper and can be found in the craft area of Wal-Mart).
Roll that bad boy out on the table, tape it down, tape overlaps together, and violà! Instant mess catcher!
The nice thing about this thick brown paper is that it is thick enough to put dabs of paint directly on it and it doesn't bleed through either!
I also have ditched the idea that the kids need smocks to craft in. I never could find them or they would have grown out of them! So instead, we go shirtless (or put on an old shirt they can grab out of their closet.)
Problem #2 solved!
Lazy Mom Problem #3 -- Stressing over whether or not they are doing the craft the right way.
People. I learned a long time ago that my kids are WAY more creative if I just let the do the craft however way they want! I'm amazed at the way their little minds can see a craft with instructions completely differently and interpret it in ways I never would!
Why put them in a box? Let go of the stress and let them do it however they want! I guarantee it will make it way for fun for them (and way less stressful for you!).
Problem #3 solved!
Lazy Mom Problem #4 -- Cleaning everything up.
HELLO! See problem solver #2! If you put down that brown paper, you can now leave all the trash, messes, used items, on the table and clean up everything by rolling up the brown paper and throwing it away when they are done! Send the kids to deliver the plastic drawers back to their homes and BAM! Done.
Problem #4 solved!
That's how I've learned to cope with crafting with kids. What's some tips you've learned to let your kids craft without losing your sanity? I'd love to hear them!
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I am exactly like you on this topic!!! The tips sound promising, though. I'll have to try them next time my kids beg to "make something."
ReplyDeleteI feel the same way but do it b/c they do enjoy it. These are awesome tips!
ReplyDeleteI am so glad to find out that I am not alone in this area! It is sad but I don't even have play-dough in the house (unless one of the kids gets it for a present). I may have to try out some of your ideas! Too bad I didn't read this before the snow storm decided to come.
ReplyDeleteOh I've kind of avoided crafts with my stepson - but with your tips I think I'd give it another
ReplyDeleteI love that brown paper. I also use anytime I am moving to prevent mud and dirt from being tracked into the house.
ReplyDeleteI don't mind letting the children do crafts, but like you, I hate the clean-up. I need to get some of that brown paper!
ReplyDelete