Looking for some constructive family fun this weekend? Raking leaves, cleaning gutters and unpacking winter clothes may not be your kids’ idea of F-U-N, but the jobs still need to get done. One way to make the tasks a bit more enjoyable is by offering a reward upon completion.
When your clan is done cleaning up inside and out, empty your craft closet and have fun making the following kid-friendly art projects. The finished items can be used to embellish your home before your Thanksgiving guests arrive.
FALL LUMINARY BAGS: Gather leaves from your yard to make these pretty fall-themed bags that light up. You will also need some plain paper bags, scissors, acrylic paint in fall colors (red, orange, yellow, gold, etc.), and flameless tea lights. Start by pouring the paint into trays, one for each color. Next, dip a leaf rib-side down into the paint color of your choice, and then press the painted side of the leaf onto the paper bag. Repeat this step using different colors of paint and leaves. You can create a pattern with the leaves or stamp them randomly on the bag. When the paint is dry, cut-out half-moon shapes on the side of the bag. Finally, place the flameless tea light in the bag and arrange the luminaries on your front porch or display them on the mantle before your guests arrive.
PINE CONE TURKEY: When your kids are outside raking leaves, have them collect a few pine cones. When they get in they can turn them into adorable turkeys. All you need are some googly eyes, small scraps of red or pink felt (if you don’t have felt, use construction paper), glue, scissors and craft feathers. To create the turkey, place a generous amount of glue on the back of the pine cone. Next, attach the feathers to cover all of the glue. Then, glue the eyes to the front of the pine cone. Cut a wattle shape from the felt or construction paper and glue it under the eyes. Allow the glue to dry overnight before displaying your turkeys throughout the house.
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