Summer immediately brings me back to my childhood. And since kids have a chance to slow down and create, I created this list of easy summer crafts for kids of all ages. These are the best craft ideas! Little hands will strengthen their fine motor skills, and older children will find creative ways to spend time through art.
Note: This list includes a mix of crafts that typically have an outcome in mind, as well as process art where the child takes the lead. Use this list of art activities for kids to create in even more ways this summer.
Creative ideas for summer
Here’s the thing about summer. There are hot, fun pool days in the summer sun, and there are days when younger and even older children would instead relax inside with the air conditioner on full blast. Being in the South, I crave both! Staying inside with downtime is an excellent time for some DIY projects from this list. Here is a fun list of summer crafts for kids of all ages.
Sticky Suncatchers
Contact paper is a hidden gem that toddlers love, and big kids follow. Use scraps of tissue paper to make a colorful summer sun.
Starfish Craft
Bring the ocean home to you with this adorable craft. You only need acrylic paint, sandpaper, and a few inexpensive materials.
The Watermelon Seed
Watermelon screams summer! This children’s book is one of my favorites. Grab some cardboard and acrylic paints to get started.
DIY Tie Dye Shoes
Tie-dying is always on my summer list. Now that I have older children, this fun activity will be part of our days at home. This screams summer camp at home!
Mermaid Mixed Collage
This is a fun summer activity for the entire family! Craft a unique mermaid using craft supplies you already own.
Jellyfish Windsock
Add a few bells to this cute summer craft, and you will have a wind chime!
Straw Jump Rope
If you use straws at your next BBQ, save them to create this little project.
Beachball Pinata
Where are my paper mache fans? Summer is the perfect time to make a beachball pinata.
Campfire Craft
Bring the campfire to life using tissue paper, glue, and other household items to make this adorable DIY craft.
Paper Shark Sewing
Weaving yarn encourages problem-solving skills, fine motor development, and creativity!
Finger Knitting
Older kids often enjoy finger knitting. Follow these simple steps to brighten up the backyard during the summer holidays.
Melted Crayon Art
Is it just me, or do you have dozens of broken crayons? This is a fun way to make new crayons out of old ones!
Watermelon Fans
Cool off during hot summer days with this fun craft. Summer paper plate crafts are simple, and little kids typically have a great time. You can decorate the seeds with pom poms.
Firefly Art
This craft is a little more complex and takes different techniques to complete. This is a creative activity for big kids.
Lemonade Craft
This is a simple idea if you have a summer party and need to entertain the kids. Use construction paper to make paper lemonade cups, which you can then serve with the real thing!
Ice Cream Craft
I scream, you scream…okay, you know where I am going with this. Grab the googly eyes and get started.
Clay Seashell Craft
After you collect seashells, give them a home with this seashell craft using air-dry or polymer clay.
Paper Mandalas
Bring the ocean home to you with this adorable craft. You only need acrylic paint, sandpaper, and a few inexpensive materials to start.
Paper Chain Octopus Craft
This great craft can also be a countdown chain to a vacation or summer birthday!
Ice Cream Cone Craft
Sponge painting is a simple craft that children of all ages enjoy. If you don’t have sponges, use foam balls to add the painted scoops.
More summer fun, please!
You asked for it, and I go to work. Here are some of my favorite summer posts to set you and your family up for success.
What will your kids DO this summer?
Take the guesswork out of your days with the Summertime Bundle.
- Startup Guide creates your summer routine.
- Activity cards have easy activities.
- The PDF calendar puts your plan in place.
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