Jan 21 2009
Emergency Craft Supplies (that you can never be without)
Wise parents and child care givers know the power of a well stocked craft closet. Rainy days, sick days, and those extra long school breaks can wreak havoc on even the most patient of parents. A well stocked craft closet can save the sanity of babysitters, grandparents, and parents when these two little words are uttered, “I’m Bored.” The words are enough to send children and parents alike into tears. Imagine being able to reach into your magic craft supply box and pull out exactly the right craft supplies to help your children entertain themselves and keep them busy and happy.
Here are my suggestions for those super handy craft supplies needed to get you through those moments when having an activity is an absolute must!
o Tempera paint
o Glue - clear or white glue is best.
o Construction paper
o Tape (Lots and lots of tape)
o Crayons
o Markers
o Glitter and or glitter glue.
o Hole punch
o Safe scissors
o Pipe cleaners
o Ruler
o Clay - the kind that doesn’t dry out is ideal.
o Cookie cutters
o Felt or foam sheets and shapes
o Paint brushes
It also helps to keep a folder full of easy to make craft instructions. That way all you have to do is pull out the craft instructions and supplies and an afternoon will pass quickly by.
Of course, all of those supplies can take up a ton of space. A plastic organizer, cart with drawers or an organizer designed specifically for crafting are great ways to store supplies without having them take over the home.
On top of the staple craft supply kit, there are a few items found around the home that you can begin collecting. It’s a great way to be environmentally conscious and to inspire your child’s imagination. Collect and reuse any of these items:
o Bottle caps
o Buttons
o Cereal boxes
o Straws
o Egg Cartons
o Scraps of fabric
o Old magazines for collages
o Popsicle sticks
o Paper towel and toilet paper rolls
o Wrapping paper
o Bows and yarn
o Tin cans
o Newspaper
o Sponges
Rainy days, cold weather days, sick days and those good old hang around the house days are more fun when children are engaged in creating fabulous works of art. A well stocked craft supply kit will make it much easier to have those special moments and you’ll never hear those two dreaded words “I’m bored”.
Make sure you have plenty of space to store their artwork and don’t forget to leave room on your refrigerator!
