Happy Valentine's Day!

For Valentine's day...we made cards...and a pinata! We also used hearts cut out of our children's artwork to decorate things.

The cards were simply, cut by me. Any pasting done together. And colored by the girls. My oldest can write her initials now so it was especially fun to have her sign all the cards.

The pinata we made using these materials: a balloon, solution of equal parts water and flour, shredded newpaper, cray paper (colorful streamers), glue, scissors, and string. First we blew up the balloon. Then we covered with a layer of newspaper that we dipped in the flour-water mixture. We let that layer dry overnight. We did about 2 1/2 layers. Every video I watched about making pinatas suggested "at least" 3 layers. I wasn't so sure since we were making our for a group of toddlers, but I didn't want the candy to just fall out on its own either. In the end, I should have done 1 layer, lol. The poor kids never did break it open. We poured it out instead. Then my husband whacked it one good hit and it finally cracked, but still probably would have required more to have candy fall from it. So, definitely one coat only. After the newspaper coat drys. Glue streamers on how ever you like. An easy way is to wrap it around. A more fun looking way is to rip or cut the streamers into squares, cover over a pencil end, dip it in glue then stick it on. We tried both ways. When you're done decorating, pop the balloon and remove it. Then cut or hole punch two holes on either side near the top for the string. String some string through. Fill with candy, toys, and more paper if desired. And voila!

Self-portrait, homemade periscope, etc

I've recently beenbrainstorming more kid craft ideas and I'm really excited to try a few out. Especially as more holidays approach (Valentines, St. Patricks, Easter).

Many ideas I have to admit I get from watching PBS kid shows with my little girls, such as Curious George or Sid the Science kid. One recently from Curious George I wanted to try was making a homemade periscope. But instead of studying the cartoon monkey's way of doing it I just googled it. Here is the link/video I used: http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to-build-spy-periscope-209972/

I chose the one I did because it used very basic household items and I didn't have to buy anything. But, it uses a cd instead of a mirror and it just doesn't work as well.

But a better one might be: http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/spy-periscope-665818/

Another activity we did was inspired by Blue's Clues. We made self-portraits using a variety of materials: paper, yarn, popsicle sticks, googly eyes, and paint. I had Mercedes (my 3 yr old) look in a mirror and notice her features. I asked her how many eyes she had, or mouths. I cut out the shapes necessary but depending on what she wanted (dress or pants, happy or sad mouth, shape of face etc). Then she placed things where they should go. Afterwards she painted it to add more of that Mercedes touch (she loves painting.)

Th other picture I included shows one way you can keep and use your kids artwork by decorating their room with it.

I have a couple fun things planned for February so keep a look out. And if you have any kid craft suggestions please let me know. Thanks!