Crafts give kids an outlet for energy, creativity

Kids and crafts — what a fun combination!

Crafts give children a way to express themselves by tapping into their creative sides. For some kids, doing crafts is an adventure and way to express their feelings. I love presenting a project to kids and seeing how the end product comes out differently for each child.

Doing crafts with kids also is a way to facilitate relationship building. Working on a project together provides opportunities for conversation in a non-threatening environment. It encourages teamwork and provides a chance to have fun together.

It is always good to have a basic idea for a project, but allowing children to make it their own is the ultimate goal. They desire something to be proud of, something to call their own. When you facilitate this, you help build confidence in a child. Who knows — this child may be the next Picasso, Monet or Vermeer.

The key to doing crafts with kids is to keep it simple, and provide clear instructions and appropriate materials. Here are some other tips for successful craftmaking:

■ Give feedback.

One thing I have learned over the years is to never say, “What is that?” When in doubt, I simply say, “Wow! That looks awesome. Tell me about it.” The proud look upon their faces and the explanations that follow are so exciting, and you won’t hurt their feelings.

■ Use recycled materials to save cost.

Toilet and paper towel rolls, magazines and scrap pieces of fabric are just a few examples of recycled materials you can use in projects. Other items are paper plates, cotton balls, crayons, water colors and construction paper, all of which are low-cost materials.

■ Get ideas from Pinterest.

I have found many low-cost projects for all ages on Pinterest. One really fun idea is to take freezer paper, roll it out on a table top, then place markers, crayons or colored pencils in reachable containers to encourage free drawing. This makes for a fun family activity, as well.

■ Take some easy steps to prevent messes.

Use old adult-sized T-shirts as smocks and place old newspapers on the table to keep messes in check.

■ Holiday themes are a lot of fun.

■ There are no mistakes in art.

Have fun and create your heart out!

Again, spending time with kids, whether it be at home, school or work, can be a fun time. My best advice is to find the kid within yourself to make this an enjoyable event for everyone involved. Your attitude is key to the success of whatever craft you choose. So, be organized, well rested and allow yourself to have fun with the kids.

Sheri Neale is a case manager with the Big Brothers Big Sisters at the Centre County Youth Service Bureau.