Simple Science: Air Pressure Experiments

Hey kids (and parents)!  Ever wonder about the term “air pressure?” With a couple of simple experiments, we can demonstrate that air wants to travel from high pressure to low pressure.  There is an old saying that “Nature dislikes a vacuum.” Of course, this does not mean a vacuum cleaner, but rather refers to a lack of air. What is “pressure?” Air pressure is basically... Read More

Chalkboard Herbal Pots

These handy herbal pots are not only fun to make, but will also let your kids get involved in making a healthy meal. Once the plants are thriving nicely in their own adorable pot, let your little helper-bees select an appropriate sprig from the plant to be used as you prepare your next meal. When it’s time to plant a new herb in one of the pplanters, simply erase and write the... Read More

Lovey-Dovey Bird Houses

These are great gifts to make for teachers and special friends. Use an inexpensive pre-made bird house from craft stores, and all you have to do is paint it with “heart”felt designs! Note: this bird house can be customized for any holiday. Supplies needed: Pre-made bird house from craft store Acrylic paints – red, pinks, and white Paint brushes Stiff paper for making heart... Read More

Handy Snowmen Ornaments

These cutie-patootie snowmen are so easy to make and they won’t melt into a puddle after the cool holiday season has passed. You will need: Solid color glass ornaments that will fit in your child’s hand Acrylic washable paint – white, black, orange, and red Small paint brushes and fine tip markers Empty egg carton Thin white ribbon Brush your child’s hand with a thin... Read More

Glittery Harvest Centerpiece

Add a festive focal point to your tablescape before the turkey even leaves the oven! No matter who is in charge of baking the pumpkin pie or carving the bird, the whole family can contribute to the spread by creating a holiday centerpiece. It’s tradition with a shimmery new twist! Supplies & Tools: Twig cornucopia & pumpkin Faux gourds & pumpkins Autumn berry garland Burlap... Read More

Bandages are for Mummies!

We don’t want to deal with real blood on Halloween, right? So let’s take a minute and review these pumpkin-carving safety tips…it just may save a trip to the ER for some stitches in grown-up, as well as little fingers! When my son, Matt, was younger, I recall my husband and I wondering just how much pumpkin carving could Matt safely do. A kid’s manual dexterity gets better... Read More

Ghostly Ghouls

Make these cheerful Halloween ghosties and your trick or treating will be fearfully fun What you’ll need: Tissue paper or cheesecloth Round balloons Drinking glass (to use as stands) White craft glue Water Bowl Paintbrush Large wiggle eyes Battery operated tea lights (found in craft store) Scissors How to make it: Partially blow up balloons, (water balloons size works well)... Read More

Thumbprint Petal Vase

Show your grandparents just how special they really are by creating a unique gift made with your own fingers…literally!  It’s simple and fun to do.  Most importantly, your love will stay in bloom throughout the year! Supplies Need: Smooth Glass Vase Glass Paint (your choice of colors) Paint Brush Little Fingers How to Make: Paint your child’s thumb with paint (we used... Read More

Psychedelic Flower-Power Pots

These colorful plant holders are far-out, man! Plenty of summer days left, so there’s still time to plant a pretty petunia in this groovy pot and enjoy some fab flowers. What you’ll need: Terra cotta pot –  use a 6 or 8 inch pot Terra cotta pot sealer – found at the hardware store in the gardening section near the pots Acrylic paints – assorted colors Brushes Clear glass... Read More

Colorful Stained Glass Block

Let your creative light shine through Any time you can get the kids involved in a craft that doesn’t have to be hung on the refrigerator, it’s a good thing. This pretty stained glass block is easy to make and incredibly useful on a windowsill, in front of a candle, or as a gift for Mom on her special day. It’s clearly a craft for family members of all ages and artistic abilities. What... Read More

Punched Tin Candleholders for Valentine’s Day

Light your family’s table with “love”ly luminaries from the heart Tin punching became popular in America during Colonial times because decorative items made out of tin were durable, lighter, and  less expensive than those made out of silver or crockery. The art is still used today for decorating homes with Colonial period pieces. Not only will tin punching teach our kids... Read More

There’s No Place Like a “Gnome Home”

Gnome Homes Whimsical gnome homes of all sizes will add a touch of color and playfulness to your winter flower beds.  They are so easy to make and kids of any age can paint them! Buy your rocks from a craft store or collect a few while on vacation. Larger rocks will be easier for younger kids to decorate. •    Wash your rocks to make sure your paint will adhere. •    Using... Read More

Make Your Own Dream Catcher

What is a dream catcher? Dream catchers are one of the most fascinating Native American traditions. According to legend, the hole in the center of the web allows good dreams to flow through to the person sleeping. The bad dreams are trapped in the web itself until the morning sun makes them fade away. Each dream catcher is unique, and kids will have fun scavenging items to... Read More