Crafting with Kids: Take It Slow

We love to take our art projects outside but, it’s not always easy. It sounds easy enough; the mess is outside and easy to clean up but, we sometimes still struggle to get those projects done (or even started if I am honest).

Why?

We struggle because my kids would much rather spend their time outside running around playing. I don’t blame them one bit, especially during the first few weeks of spring. Being stuck inside all winter is no fun, for any of us.  

Move slowly

Especially after being stuck inside for months on end like we are every winter, my kids are less than impressed with the idea of spending their precious time outside, working on art. I can’t say I really blame them.

If I am completely honest, the art projects are my idea anyways. Hardly ever in those first few weeks do my kids suggest doing an art project.

I am the one who decides that this specific thing sounds fun today. That does not mean that it indeed sounds fun to my kids. My kids usually have other ideas of what sounds fun.

Where do I start?

Start by simply suggesting it and seeing how they react to the idea. Ask in the morning and see if they might like to do art outside later. When it comes time to go outside, ask again after being outside for a few minutes.

There is still a chance that even though they agreed to it earlier they may change their mind after walking outside.

Let it pass

If your kids aren’t in the mood to do an art project that day just let it pass. Let them play outside to their hearts content. They may even come back later, after being outside for a bit and ask to do it.

Other options

Another thing I have found fairly helpful, is to spread the project over multiple days. This way they still have plenty of time outside. This keeps them from feeling stuck. Once they start to get easily distracted let them go play and come back another day.

Take your time. Even if they are for gifts, start early. It will be less stressful for everyone.

 

Check out all of Crafting with Kids article here!

Meet Stephanie! She’s a 24 year old stay at home Mom, who couldn’t ask for a better blessing than to be home with her daughter!! Their favorite things to do together is working on art projects and they enjoy sharing them with people at Crafting with Bug!! In her free time she enjoys reading and scrapbooking!!