KIDS’ CRAFT, COLOURING AND PUZZLES

GET THOSE CREATIVE JUICES FLOWING WITH THESE EASY CRAFT STATION IDEAS

Arts and craft play not only encourage your child’s creativity, but are essential for “developing little minds and bodies”, according to Officeworks Education Ambassador and influencer Jacinta Sagona from @cintaandco.

“A designated kids’ craft station helps keep any mess contained and allows free access to everything they need to keep their minds and little hands busy!” says Jacinta.

Here, Jacinta, along with craft influencers Shannon from @Ohcreativeday and Clare and Analie from @Teachmakecreate share their perfect kids’ craft station tips.

STATION SET-UP

A well-configured craft station should be accessible as well as being easy to use. “Set up a child’s-height table and surround it with see-through containers so your child can clearly see and reach all their materials,” say Clare and Analie.

Jacinta adds that it doesn’t necessarily have to be a static space. “A movable craft cart means that you can craft wherever you like – indoors or out.”

BASIC SUPPLIES

“Start simply with drawing paper, different kinds of paper, and child-friendly scissors, glue and a variety of pencils and markers. Watercolour palettes are also low-mess and look fantastic,” says Shannon.

“Storage containers and dividers are also a must so that you can divide up all your pens, pencils, markers and scissors for easy access,” adds Jacinta.

CHANGE IT UP

Once your craft station is established, Shannon suggests periodically rotating in new materials.

“Try crayons, paint sticks, felt and scrap fabric – let your child’s interests guide you,” says Shannon. “Beads and pipe cleaners are always a winner, but keep them away from little hands as they’re a choking hazard.” If you’re concerned about the potential mess with some craft supplies, Shannon believes it’s best not to offer it in the first place!

RECYCLABLE AND NATURAL MATERIALS

Not all craft materials are costly. Recyclable and natural materials have boundless

creative uses – and Clare and Analie suggest being on the lookout for interesting items such as sticks, rocks and leaves as well as recyclable goods such as cardboard boxes, bread tags and bottle tops.

“Big baskets are great for storing those larger recyclable and natural materials.”

KEEP IT ORGANISED

A defined storage system will ensure your craft station doesn’t become unruly.

“If everything has its place, children know where to return items when they finish using them,” advises Jacinta – who also recommends placing a drop sheet under your craft area and placing a protective sheet of plastic on any surface.

As for all those miniature masterpieces? To reduce the amount of paper clutter, Clare and Analie suggest displaying just a few creations and saving the rest in a scrapbook.