6 Easy Summer Craft Projects for Kids (With Video Tutorials Parents Can Follow Too)
Introduction
Summer crafts don’t have to be complicated or require a shopping trip to the art store. With a few basic supplies and a little inspiration, you can set up simple, screen free activities that keep kids engaged, creative, and comfortable, especially on long afternoons when everyone’s bored.
These six easy summer crafts use everyday materials, take minimal setup, and include step by step video tutorials you can follow along with. Whether you’re crafting with a preschooler or a tween, there’s something here that’ll spark a little sunshine fueled creativity.
1. Paper Plate Sun Catchers
What it is:
A bright and colorful window decoration made with tissue paper and a paper plate frame.
Why it’s great:
Kids get to design their own “stained glass” art with no glue mess. It looks beautiful in a sunny window and can double as a decoration for summer parties or playrooms.
Supplies:
- Paper plate
- Clear contact paper or plastic wrap
- Marker
- Tissue paper
- Scissors
Bonus tip:
Cut out shapes ahead of time for toddlers, or let older kids freestyle their designs.
2. Ice Painting
What it is:
Frozen blocks of paint used as brushes or stamping tools on paper.
Why it’s great:
It’s a sensory-rich, cooling craft that’s perfect for hot afternoons. The melting ice creates cool watercolor effects and keeps kids curious as they create.
Supplies:
- Ice cube tray
- Washable paint or food colors
- Craft sticks
- White paper
Bonus tip:
Use different shaped trays (like stars or hearts) for fun patterns. Stick to washable paint for easy cleanup.
3. Toilet Paper Roll Bird Feeders
What it is:
A quick and eco friendly bird feeder kids can hang in the backyard.
Why it’s great:
It’s a mix of craft and nature project. Kids feel proud watching birds enjoy something they made.
Supplies:
- Empty toilet paper rolls
- Peanut butter (or sunflower butter for allergies)
- Bird seed
- String or yarn
Bonus tip:
Make a few and track which birds visit each one. You can even turn it into a nature journal activity.
4. Watercolor Resist Art
What it is:
Kids draw with white crayons or oil pastels, then paint over with watercolors to reveal their hidden designs.
Why it’s great:
It feels like magic and even toddlers can create impressive results. It’s also nearly mess-free if you prep a paint tray in advance.
Supplies:
- White crayon or oil pastel
- Cup or bowl of water
- Watercolor paints
- Paintbrush
- Thick paper or cardstock
Bonus tip:
Write secret messages or draw summer shapes like suns, waves, or popsicles.
5. DIY Bubble Wands with Pipe Cleaners
What it is:
Simple homemade bubble wands shaped from colorful pipe cleaners.
Why it’s great:
It’s an easy fine-motor craft that leads directly into outdoor play. You can make unique shapes like hearts, stars, or letters and kids can use them right away.
Supplies:
- Pipe cleaners
- Beads (optional for decorating handles)
- Scissors
- Bubble solution
Bonus tip:
Pair it with a homemade bubble mix recipe and let kids experiment with wand shapes and bubble sizes.
6. Sponge Water Bombs
What it is:
Reusable water “balloons” made from cut up, colorful sponges and rubber bands.
Why it’s great:
Perfect for backyard water battles without the cleanup or plastic waste. You can soak them, toss them, and reuse them all summer.
Supplies:
- Colorful kitchen sponges
- Rubber bands or string
- Scissors
- Bucket of water
Bonus tip:
Let each kid choose their sponge color combo, then assign teams for water games. These are great for birthdays or playdates too.
Final thoughts
Summer crafts don’t have to mean glitter in the carpet or hours of cleanup. These easy, hands-on projects are fun, flexible, and totally doable even if you’re not a “crafty” parent. With a few basic supplies and a quick video tutorial, kids can create something they’re proud of while building fine motor skills, creativity, and independence.
Whether you’re filling an afternoon, planning a no screen activity, or looking for a way to wind down before dinner, these crafts are a great way to keep the summer energy flowing. Choose one, set up a little craft corner, and let the creativity unfold at its own pace.
Looking to build a go-to list of summer boredom busters? Bookmark this post, you’ll be glad you did.
Written by the TimeForFam Team
We explore, review, and share the best in family entertainment so you can skip the research and jump straight to the fun.
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