Crafting with Children for the 4th of July

Holidays are the best times to have fun with children. It doesn't matter what holiday it is, there will always be enjoyable activities, crafts or stories to make kids smile. I once aspired to be an elementary school teacher. After changing my college major to Psychology, I began working as a Camp Counselor at a local park and taught the kids how to play games which taught them teamwork and cooperation. We also had craft time that allowed them to use their imagination and creative skills.

As the 4^th of July approached, the children (especially the youngest ones) began to get excited about what crafts we would make. Each day of the week we made something new for them to enjoy and take home to display. If you are a parent or have nieces, nephews, or grandchildren take the time to sit down and have family time by trying some of these great crafts.

String of Stars will help decorate your home or deck. This will really get the kids excited for the fireworks. Simply buy sheets of foam in red, white and blue. You will cut out stars in different sizes. Some of the little ones at camp liked to make several large ones and glue little ones in the middle. But keep it open to whatever your children want to do. After all, it is their project. When all of the stars are complete, have an adult punch holes at the top. Simply run string through the tops of the stars, making sure you tie large knots at both ends to keep it together. When finished, find a spot to hang the decoration. Not only will the child feel special, but both of you will be reminded of the quality time you had together each time you pass by it.

Creating a 4^th of July shirt is also exciting, however, it may become too messy for the little ones. Prepare by lining the floors and/or tables with newspaper to avoid ruining good furniture. Start this project by going to your local craft store and purchasing white pre-shrunk t-shirts. Next, find sponges that are precut into stars or large enough to cut yourself. Lastly, purchase some fabric paint in red, white and blue. Lay the shirts down on a flat surface and line the inside with cardboard (this will eliminate the paint soaking through to the other side). Have your child dunk the stars into the paint and press it firmly on the fabric. Allow them to do whatever they desire so they create a unique shirt to proudly wear on the fourth of July! Another great idea for making patriotic shirts is at www.familycorner.com.

The Patriotic Wreath we made at camp was also a big hit. I'm sure it was because they were able to get their hands dirty! You can start this craft by cutting old cardboard into a large circle (old cereal boxes work great). Next, cut construction paper into a circle the same size. As mentioned above, allow your kids to choose their own color. This is one instance where it can't hurt to give them a little freedom! After pouring the paint into separate dishes, have the kids cover their hands in it and make handprints on the edges of the circle. If done correctly, the palm of each print will connect in the center. I brought flag stickers in so they could have a flag in the middle, but of course this is optional.

Have fun this 4^th of July and remember to keep the children involved. It is extremely important to have one-on-one time with them and to let them be creative. Positive reinforcement will help them become better people, so be sure to give words of praise after the craft is complete!