Submitted by admin on Tue, 11/30/1999 - 6:00pm
. The Dow Chemical Company, maker of Styrofoam(R) brand products, offers the following suggestions to help you start a new family tradition -- Family Craft Night. It's a fun way to craft a lifetime of happy memories!
Don't let a busy schedule overwhelm you. Schedule Family Craft Night when you can -- weekly, monthly, or just before big holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, Easter, Valentine's Day or Halloween. Then follow these tips for a successful night.
Use the Internet to scan for craft project ideas. Many sites, such as www.styrofoamcrafts.com, make it easy with free project instructions and complete materials lists. Ask your children for input, and be sure the project is age-appropriate.
Alternate between group and individual projects. For example, one night the entire family can help build and decorate a gingerbread house made from Styrofoam. The next time, each person can make his or her own ornament.
Include your child's interests. If your child is fascinated by outer space, the insect world or has a favorite color, create a craft that reflects these interests. Also incorporate materials from recent family outings, like seashells, tickets stubs or postcards. You can cut costs by using "found" objects from around the house, like buttons, yarn, string, fabric scraps, and old greeting cards.
Create kits for each child that contain all the materials for the craft. Review the instructions in advance. Make sure you have enough materials and time to complete the project. If time allows, make a sample the kids can follow.
Create a safe and organized work area. Remove any objects that are fragile or valuable. Cover the work surface and floor with newspapers, plastic or an old sheet or tablecloth. Have chairs for everyone. Such prep makes clean up easier, too!
Stay clean. Keep handy a roll of paper towels or old rags to wipe up spills. Wear smocks or old T-shirts so spills and drips are worry-free.
Designate a display area in the home where everyone can admire the completed masterpieces.
Photograph each child with his or her creation, and create a photo album to document your Family Craft Night fun.
Visit www.styrofoamcrafts.com, where you'll find dozens of ideas to feed children's imaginations and fuel their creativity.
