Expert: Ginger Lordy - 9/14/2004

Question
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Followup To
Question -
Do you have any ideas for interesting unique crafts or activities for kids on a rainy afternoon?
Answer -
Hi Leila,

I have lots of art ideas that can be fun on rainy days, but I was wondering how old the kids are?  Also are they boys and girls?

Thanks,
Ginger
CelebrateArtSF.com

The kids are young ages 2-8.
Leila  

Answer
Hi Leila,

On rainy days it can be hard to keep the kids happy and busy, here are some ideas I have:

Masks - using paper plates, you can cut them in 1/2 or use the entire circle, there are so many ways to decorate these  using construction paper; people, animals, aliens, anything .  . . libraries usually have great books on different kinds of masks.  You might want to get a book on African masks and look at them, then let everyone make their own African-style mask, or read a book like Where the Wild Things Are - then make masks that look like the characters and act the book out after they are done.  The older kids can help the younger with the play.

Sculpture - let the kids build with boxes, paper towel rolls and masking tape - it even comes in fun colors. The sculpture could be decorated with paintor markers(but becareful if you use waxy cereal boxes the paint wont stick to them but you can glue paper over them and then decorate)

Card making and letter writing - this can be great if you send holiday cards, let the kids make them.

Draw your favorite kind of day or animal

Collage - cut up old magazines to make a picture or story

Watercolor painting - it is also cool if you draw with a crayon first and then paint over - the crayon will show through - older children like to use a white crayon and make secret messages.

Anyway hope this helps, and you have fun too!

Ginger
CelebrateArtSF.com