Woodcraft Construction Kits - The Perfect Toys for Kids

By Christopher L. Rodriguez

The woodcraft construction kits currently represent one of the most sought after toys for kids around the world. The amount of fun and education that these quality toys provide is unbelievable. Best of all, these are also highly affordable. You won't be able to find many toys that offer the same amount of satisfaction at the same price. Parents around the world are very thankful to be able to get such a product for their little ones due to the fact that they are so educational. Another great thing about the woodcraft kits is that they can even be used by kids under the age of 5!

The woodcraft kits are also great for adults, not just for kids. A great number of them use quality pre-cut plywood material that is pressed in different sequences. If they are assembled correctly, they can get the shape of impressive 3D models. You will be able to find a great number of woodcraft construction kit models out there, but some of the most well-known and used ones include aircrafts, such as Apache Helicopters, Boeing Planes, Fighter Planes, Albatross Planes, and so on.

Other well-known wooden puzzles are animals. These construction kits are loved by the kids and parents as well because they are so educational. By using these quality toys, a kid can learn how an animal looks in reality. They're great fun and worth every cent that you spend on them. Some of the shapes that these toys can make include dolphins, frogs, sea horses, swans, turtles and angel fishes. You can also find toys that feature the shape of dinosaurs, such as Apatosaurus, Styracosaurus, Triceratops, Brachiosaurus, Tyrannosaurus, Velociraptor, etc. There really is no limit when it comes to what kids can create using these woodcraft construction kits.

Kids generally love toys that help in expressing their imagination or creative side and we highly recommend woodcraft construction kits for this exact purpose. They are highly affordable and offer a huge amount of fun and education. There are very few toys out there that can beat this offer!

If you love your kid you should buy a woodcraft construction kit. You can get a cool wooden puzzle on the internet.

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Crafting with Kids

By Michael Brandon Smith

The first task is to choose a project that everyone can enjoy regardless of their age. This step can make or break the project. If you don't get this right, you may have a big headache in the making. For those who are left-handed, remember to get a pair of left-handed scissors. If this step is forgotten, all is not lost yet. The child could perform any step that involves gluing or folding.

Some kids move faster and or more efficient than others. Practicing patience with kids who take longer than the other children is very important. Encouragement is also helpful for your kids if they struggle with certain steps. Ideally, let them figure it out on their own. It will give them a sense of pride and accomplishment. Also, it will make craft projects fun for the entire family.

The next tip is to make sure you have all the materials needed for the craft project ahead of time. This will prevent any hiccups during the project. You and your family will be disappointed if halfway through the project something is missing. It is always handy to have cups of water ready or a sink close by to wash and clean supplies as needed.

These craft projects can provide some fun family bonding time. The great thing about this is that it can be lots of fun for all ages. Kids are naturally curious and have a blast drawing, coloring, and cutting out pictures. These tips can help to have a better experience with your kids during arts and craft time.

Again, be patient and have all your materials ready head of time. Now, you and your family are fully prepared to have a great time doing arts and crafts. Michael Smith enjoys spending time with his family and doing craft projects with them.

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Soap Making Kits - What to Look Out For When Buying a Kit?

By Anne Henry

When you are just starting out with making soap from home and want to start of the quick way then begin your adventure with soap making kits. These kits are widely available in the market for both children and adults who want to experience the wonders of making their own homemade soaps. Come this holiday season, it is the best gift to make and is relatively affordable yet a pleasurable way of showing your love to family and friends. They are inexpensive but a worthy gift.

Ask local craft stores for a good kit. It is important that the kit contains high quality products and must have all the necessary accessories that you need to get started. The soap kits may come in two categories, one for children and the other one for adults.

The process of making soap can be fun, exciting and easy. As a novice you start out with the basics. If given with explicit directions then the soap making endeavor would be a piece of cake. If on the other hand you opt to purchase kits that are lesser in value compared to a high quality kit, the results are not guaranteed. It is best to choose a good quality kit and which will provide you with a quality soap finish. Sales staff in craft stores are more than willing to give you a hand in choosing the best one, therefore make sure to ask.

While you are there, it is sensible to check the products for glycerin soap as it is not as complex in comparison to the cold process soap making. There are many varieties of soap making to choose from and it is time to introduce yourself to them gradually every time you visit a craft store, although glycerin is the easiest way to begin with for a novice. However, for those who are more aggressive and tenacious in approaching this new undertaking, there are kits for you such as cream soaps, or cold process soaps.

What to look out for when buying a kit?

Well first it should have an accurate direction or instructions; it also must come with a recipe that is easy to understand for a beginner and most of the equipment that you need to implement the procedure.

The basic ingredients that should be included in the soap making kit are lye, essential oils, or fragrance oils among others. For a higher cost kit, it may include the materials needed to cut soap batches and probably even comes with the package where the soap product is wrapped in after the completion of the soap making process.

Other basic things that the kit must have are the safety tools such as safety goggles and gloves. These safety devices are vital when handling lye in particular. Once you have the basics to get started, it is wise to further your study by joining soap making classes. This can help a novice to enhance soap making skills, for those who want to push through with this habit.

Classes may be readily available in craft stores for those who wish to learn more about this hobby. They often can be found free of charge if you look around. But for a more advance class, fees may be much more expensive in this stage. Start your new found hobby now with high quality soap making kits and discover what you skills when it comes to the craftsmanship of homemade soaps.

Anne Henry is an author and has been making natural soaps for over 12 years. She loves helping others to get started in this amazing hobby too. To get more useful tips about soap making kits or get a copy of her FREE 'Natural Soap Making' mini-course feel free to visit her site http://www.soapmakinginformation.com/

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Craft Supply Checklist for Kid's Crafts

By Pam Lester

I often get asked, "What types of craft supplies do I need to keep on hand for kids crafts?"

So, I've come up with a list of basic crafting supplies that will keep your kids creative and crafting up a storm!

It's a good idea to keep all of your crafting supplies organized and labeled so they are easy to find. I suggest three sizes of containers: plastic shoe boxes, empty baby wipe containers, and baby food jars. I also recommend a file folder to organize papers and cardstock. These storage containers will help sort and organize most craft supplies. There are also many commercial storage cabinets and units that will also work well!

• crayons
  
• markers
  
• pencils
• colored pencils
• paint brushes
• assorted colors of tempera paint
• glue sticks
• white glue
• low temp glue gun
• assorted colored construction paper
• cardstock
• drawing paper
• newspaper
• assorted sized wiggle eyes
• assorted pipe cleaners
• paper plates
• foam plates
• tape
• ziploc baggies
• scissors
• stapler
• glitters
• fun foam
• string or ribbons
• pom poms
• colored felt squares
• plastic beads
• popsicle sticks
• stickers
• buttons
• clothespins
• magnets
• feathers
• straws
• sequins
• paper hole punch
• safety pins
  

"Now that I have all the supplies, what do I do with them?", Well - visit http://www.theideabox.com and get TONS of free craft and activity ideas to make with your children. Have FuN!

About The Author
Pam Lester is a mother of 2 and former art teacher. She is creator and owner of of http://www.TheIdeaBox.com - visit for more free crafts and ideas!!

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Tips for Creating Activity Kits for Kids

By Jennifer Untermeyer

Struggling to find activities for your next family journey? Looking for creative (and quiet) ways to entertain the kids at their next visit to the Grandparents? Well designed activity kits for kids are the perfect way to keep them entertained at home, while traveling, or anytime you need some peace and quiet.

What's an activity kit? An activity kit is a collection of age appropriate items that keep kids entertained. In short - they are fun in a bag! You can create one for any need or occasion - from going to the park, eating out, travel time or even quiet time at home.

All activities - whether homemade or purchased - must have the following elements:

• Include a wide variety of activities. To keep kids entertained, you must engage a variety of developmental skills. Be sure the kit you choose contains items that will stimulate the imagination, creativity and pretend play.


• Not stick solely to a single theme. While your son may love dinosaurs, a bag filled with dinosaur items will not entertain for long. Instead, mix up the contents with some other fun toys such as cars or airplanes.


• They are good quality and age-appropriate. Toys and crafts that are too difficult will lead to frustration, while things that are too easy will lead to boredom. Read the packaging and think about your child's specific skill level as you select items.


• Packed in a bag that is appropriate to the desired use. Lunch bags are great for packing activities for a restaurant (small enough to fit on the table but large enough to contain sufficient activities); however, they may not be the best choice for a long journey or a trip to the park.


• Every bag should be self-contained. This is especially true if including crafts. Many craft kits require extra items - be sure to pack those as well. Consider including pairs of pretend play items (2 animals or 2 figures) so that it is easier to play make believe.

A well-crafted activity kit is a mom's best friend. Keep a couple handy to pull out when you need them - for unexpected trips, play dates, eating out or even just quiet time at home.

Before you make your own activity kits for kids, visit Jenny Untermeyer's store for a selection of high quality, travel tested activity kits that are perfect for keeping kids busy in the car, on the plane, in a restaurant or anywhere you need a little quiet time. Content kids mean peace and quiet for mom and dad.

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Keep the Fun in Arts and Crafts for Kids

By Carol M. Edwards

Kids love arts and crafts projects until they are no longer fun. What could possibly turn a joyful, creative session sour? Unfortunately, it is adults. Unlike adults, children are less likely to conform to rules, feel the need to organize the process, work in linear courses or "do things" like an adult may choose to do them. In a child's world, a horse can be purple, it is okay that paint is messy and anything they make is a work of art. If you can get on board with this then you and your child will have positive arts and crafts experiences. To assist in the process, use the following guidelines.

Lose the rigid boundaries. Some adults have a difficult time relinquishing control over the process and set constraints that stifle a child's creative process. Learn to let go.

Let them make a mess. A drop of glue, splash of paint, or spilled piece of glitter can send some people over the edge. Plan for the mess. Place plastic on the table and floors and old clothes on the kids. Go with the flow.

Respect the child's pace. Some kids slap on paint with wild abandon, while others putter and work diligently. Respect their technique.

Positive comments only. You can dislike a child's artwork but you don't have to say that out loud or lie. Negative comments are destructive to a child's self-esteem and creative process. Keep them to yourself. Instead you could say something like, "I really like how you used that color" or "I love the shape." A simple "nice" could suffice.

Let the child do it. Kids learn through doing. No matter how clumsy or uncoordinated their efforts are, they are mastering the skill through their struggle. If you have to assist the child, try a hand-over-hand approach.

Understand kids can have very short attention spans. Developmentally, attention span increases with age and is individual to each child. Let the child decide when their creation is finished. Forcing a child to continue when they are ready to quit creates a power struggle.

Join in and make your own crafts. Creating with your child is a great way to spend time together. Don't worry about your lack of ability. Just have fun.

Ask the child what they like about their creation. It is important that children learn to recognize their strengths and accept who they are. Children who are self-critical tend to be negative and less happy.

Interact and talk during craft time. While this is not the time to get into heavy conversation, you can ask questions about what the child is creating and how they will proceed. Follow the lead of the child.

If asked for suggestions, turn it back to the child. Because kids look to adults for approval, they may ask adults to make decisions for them. Answering these questions indicates to the child that their choices are not important or correct. Here is a list of possible questions a child may ask and possible answers:

Q: "What should I make?"

A: "I am wondering the same thing. What were you thinking of making?" "When you look at all of this craft stuff, what do you want to pick up the most?"

Q: "What color should I use?"

A: "What color would you choose if I asked you the same question?" "Which color is your favorite?"

"Close your eyes and pick a color."

Q: "Which one do you like better?"

A: "Tell me which one you like better." "I am not sure. What do you think?"

Arts and crafts should be relaxing and enjoyable for kids as well as adults. Forgoing rigid boundaries and letting the creativity and imagination of the child guide the process will create memorable moments for both children and adults.

Carol M. Edwards is the creator of the popular website Kids Crafty Creations, a resource for easy and inexpensive kids crafts projects, games and activities. In addition, you will find various articles on the importance of arts and crafts and play for child development. Visit at http://www.kidscraftycreations.com.

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How to Make Amazing Crafts with Kids

By Mary Amos

Arts & crafts with kids!

There are countless reasons why it is a great idea to do arts and crafts with your kids. For one, working on arts & crafts helps to hone children's creativity. Arts and crafts can also help promote teamwork and sharing, as well as offering the perfect opportunity to bond and find new common interests. Arts and crafts also allow kids to openly express themselves, even at very young ages. Nonetheless, despite all these positives, the best reason for getting your kids involved in arts and crafts is that it is fun! If you are panicking that you will not know how to guide your child through their first craft, there is no need to worry; there are plenty of arts and crafts ideas for all ages from pre-schoolers up through teenage artists.

Best practices for doing arts & crafts with kids

1. Don't ask "What is it?" when you are befuddled as to the identity of your kid's final creation. Just ask your kid to tell you more about their art or craft, and let them explain how they see their creation.

2. There will be a mess. There is nothing you can do about it. As soon as you make that realization, the whole experience will be far more enjoyable. Indeed, sometimes it is even important to make a mess. Take that knowledge to plan ahead. Get a large clear workspace for your kids, and give them the opportunity to be creative without having to worry about getting paint on your new Persian rug

2. Making arts and crafts is supposed to be about using your imagination. For this reason, try not to show your kids a completed craft as an example. Instead, let your kids learn to interpret the instructions as they wish in order to truly be creative. This will also give your kids a good lesson on the best ways to follow and adapt instructions.

4. Making arts and crafts requires a lot of focus. For this reason, it is best to get your kids to calm down a bit before placing them in front of glue and scissors.

Basic supplies for making arts & crafts with kids

Just like your kitchen pantry, a kid's craft drawer should have a few staples. While you may need something more specific for special crafts, for the most part you will be able to get by with the following list: kid-friendly paint, scissors, crayons, etc. It's also a good idea to keep a drawer stocked with construction paper, beads, glitter, paint brushes, glue sticks, and the ever popular "wiggly eyes."

The education benefit of arts & crafts

Arts and crafts can be used to apply hands-on learning to any subject. Using crafts this way helps kids think more in-depth about the subject of their artwork or craft projects. Virtually any subject matter can be taught using arts & crafts with a little creativity. For instance, if you are learning about world geography, you could have the kids make a tissue paper globe.

Learn about holidays, history, and any other topic your kids should study. Even math can be enriched through arts and crafts. Remember that school isn't the only place kids should be learning; your kids will be much more willing and excited to learn if you make learning fun with interactive arts and crafts projects.

Some ideas for kids' arts & crafts

Kids' arts and crafts can be quick and simple to keep the attention of on-the-go toddlers. They can also be sophisticated and complex for older kids who are up to a challenge. To get an idea of the scope of arts and crafts projects out there, take a trip to your local arts and crafts store or teacher's supply shop. These stores will have pre-designed craft kits, including jewelry art, painting kits, and other craft ideas. Each kit will come with instructions and all of the materials you require.

Another good idea, once you have gained some experience, is to walk arts and craft stores to shop for kids' art ideas. Here are some ideas: try straw painting, where kids can create arts and crafts by blowing paint through a straw onto a poster board or construction paper; or let your kids dip marbles in paint and roll them across the painting surface for a messy (but fun!) painting project. If you are looking for something a bit less messy then try pipe cleaner art. This is a great craft because kids of all ages can join in. Young children can use their imaginations to create simple objects out of pipe cleaners. Older kids may enjoy incorporating other supplies such as beads into pipe cleaner art.

Mary Amos loves arts and crafts and has been creating amazing projects for kids and families for years. See her exciting new ideas at Arts and Crafts with Kids, and be sure to visit Arts and Crafts for more fun projects!

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