Looking for some fun ways to pass the time with your wee ones? Why not try these easy craft ideas from our friends at Smart Play Network? You'll usually find staff from Smart Play Network on board the Play Talk Read buses, Benji and Bonnie. Sadly, the buses aren't able to run at the moment because of coronavirus, so they've brought the activities to you at home instead.
All the ideas use things you may well already have lying about at home, like bottles and washing up liquid, or things you can find outdoors. And your kids can then spend time playing with the new toys they’ve made – win win! We’ll be adding a new video each week, so keep checking back for more.
#1: Bubble cups
#1: Bubble cups
Kids love playing with bubbles! These bubble cups are easy to make and lots of fun to play with afterwards – especially in the bath!
Loved it? Let us know!
#2: Rainbow rice
#2: Rainbow rice
This fun sensory activity makes use of something we all have in our homes these days – hand sanitiser!
Loved it? Let us know!
#3: Ribbon wands
#3: Ribbon wands
Have fun making these cute ribbon wands together, then cast some magic around the house! Is there a spell to help them tidy their room? Messius awayo?
Loved it? Let us know!
#4: Painting with no brushes
#4: Painting with no brushes
Painting with a brush is fun – but has your wee one tried painting with a sponge, fork, toilet roll or other household items? Here’s how.
Loved it? Let us know!
#5: Paper plate jellyfish
#5: Paper plate jellyfish
Wee ones will love making their own wibbly wobbly jellyfish – how will they decorate theirs?
Loved it? Let us know!
#6: Discovery bottles
#6: Discovery bottles
Bring nature indoors by making a lovely discovery bottle together. Here’s how.
Loved it? Let us know!
#7: Sensory boxes
#7: Sensory boxes
Have fun making a sensory box together and deciding what will go inside – then it’s up to them to see if they can guess what’s what in the box by touch alone!
Loved it? Let us know!
#8: Gluck and fake snow
#8: Gluck and fake snow
If your kids like getting messy then this video is for them! Find out how to make gluck (slime) and use it for imaginative play, and how to make fake snow for Christmas decorations.
Loved it? Let us know!
#9: Musical kitchen
#9: Musical kitchen
Find out how to make music with everyday objects from your kitchen, including pots and pans, tin foil and pasta!
Loved it? Let us know!