Brilliant DIY projects to keep the little ones entertained over the festive season

The holiday season is fast approaching, and whereas we all look forward to time spent with loved ones, the prevailing spirit of generosity and beautiful festive decorations that remind us of our own childhood, many parents are once again faced with an important question, “How do I keep the little ones busy and entertained over the break?”

Fortunately, there are many highly creative activities that have the advantage of not only allowing kids to engage in constructive play, but will also let you spend truly meaningful time with them. This is really the beauty of the fun DIY projects described below; but, let’s not forget that creative “hands-on” endeavours also contain many developmental benefits for children of all ages. Indeed, things may get messy (as they should!), but in every imaginative exercise your child will:

• Learn more about the nature of the physical world (textures, smells, colours and how things can be remade into different, new items);
• Develop both fine and large motor skills;
• Develop the ability to problem solve in a creative manner, and;
• Learn to express thoughts and ideas in pro-social and constructive ways.

So, let’s jump right into the great DIY projects you can complete with your children this festive season!

Liven up your children’s experience of gardening

Nurturing your children’s green thumbs in a creative way gets them outdoors and learning about the wonder of Mother Nature.

Create a personal, one-of-a-kind mobile for their rooms

Teach your kids about the value of creating something entirely new from those bits-and-bobs that seem destined for the rubbish bin. You can go completely off script on this one, and use whatever you have on hand.

Melted crayon art

Crayons, so long as they aren’t used on your walls, are awesome – they smell nice, are easy to hold, are vividly colourful and bring even stick figures to life. Being creative often means using something familiar in a new way, and there’s exactly where the following video comes in. Again, you don’t have to keep to the script – try to come up with new patterns and designs.

Go big with a tyre see-saw

OK, so this one may be for those who like a bit of a challenge, but the end result is absolutely brilliant. Come to think of it, if you can rope granddad/oupa/kumkhulu into the project, the woodwork part may become a breeze (always a plus!).

There is always a deep sense of accomplishment once you can stand back and admire the product of your handiwork – so just imagine how your little ones will feel! Bear in mind that if you need any advice concerning your DIY ambitions, or are in need of supplies for the above creative projects, go to your nearest Builders or shop online.

Happy creating!