Parenting

Crafty ideas for kids

Top tips for making the most of your child’s creative adventures
Liam Norris

Art and craft projects are a fantastic opportunity for your tot to unleash his imagination, engage in sensory play and experiment with all kinds of mental and physical skills.

“It’s all about expressing yourself and having a good time with art – and that’s the case whether you’re young or old,” says crafty guy Phil Gallagher, better known to kids as TV’s Mister Maker.

Here are his top tips for making the most of your child’s creative adventures:

TAKE INSPIRATION FROM WHEREVER:

“The idea for a great arty ‘make’ can come from anywhere!”

DON’T WORRY IF IT DOESN’T TURN OUT AS PLANNED:

“There are no right or wrong answers. It’s just all about being creative and finding joy in making something.”

JUST HAVE A GO:

“Being creative and making something can bring you joy and give confidence, whatever your age.”

USE WHATEVER’S AVAILABLE:

“Try to use recycled materials as much as you can. Start saving old kitchen-roll tubes, sponges, cereal packets and the like, as these can be really useful. Gloopy glue, pencils, pens and paint are important too.”

BE INSPIRED:

Discover arts and crafts from around the globe with new DVD Mister Maker Around The World: Let’s Go Mini Makers! (ABC For Kids, $14.95).

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