Living on the coast in Southern California has its perks. While I revel the picturesque ice covered lakes and snow covered landscapes posted from my brother from Upstate New York; I realize the nearly consistent 60-80’ coastal weather is where I belong. Whether it is hitting the beach, a great local hike, neighborhood stroll or drivable getaway; I have always enjoyed being out and about.
New Ways To Learn and Grow
Unfortunately, our more adventurous outdoor explorations are on hiatus. But our need to trek new vistas, both physically and mentally, is unfettered. So, I’ve been encouraged to explore new creative ways to keep my child learning, creating, and growing. You and your child will have so much fun throughout the process! Every child is unique and with encouragement (that fits their interests) can enjoy DIY projects. So let’s start creating!
Tic-Tac-Toe Crafts
This month’s DIY project is TIC-TAC-TOE On The Go. It can easily be modified for all ages and be used in so many different ways. Keep the kids busy or give as a gift for friends. Additionally, these projects offer so many benefits! Creating together opens up a channel for parents and children to express and discuss different interests. In this project, use the rows and columns to incorporate learning of shape, size, addition & subtraction, arrays & multiplication, and fractions. We hope you enjoy these crafts.
Tic-Tac-Toe Trail Set
Suggested Supplies
~ repurposed paper bag with handle
~ misc. desired art supplies to design your bag
~ (4-8) equal length craft/popsicle sticks
~ piece of paper
~ scissors
~ pen
Painless Process
Now, let’s grow…Allow your child to decorate the paper bag to their interests. Use magazines, stickers, markers, paints… let the sky be the limit…and “Oh the places you will go”! Fold the paper in half, and then in half again. Fold in half one more time and reopen paper. Cut the piece of paper into eight equal parts along your fold-line. Write one travel/trail challenge on each piece of the paper. Challenges can include: Nature’s match treasure hunt. Draw pictures of the items to find. Variation search-find variations of things in nature. Examples include: different rock types, leaves, flowers, blades of grass, succulents…(choose items from your space, can you fill a 3X3 array? How many items will you need?) Practice math skills with problems related to child’s new school applications. Remember to always be sensitive to the protection of habitat and return nature to its natural environment.
Tic-Tac-Toe Rock Set (Valentine optional)
Suggested Supplies
~ (9) smooth rocks
~ markers/Sharpies or acrylic paints
~ empty candy box or similar small box
Painless Process
Decorate the rocks, however you desire, (hearts optional) on one side. After it has dried, flip the rocks over and decorate the other side with a different theme. On your box, use markers to draw your tic-tac-toe board on the top or inside. Tic-Tac-Toe, your ready to go. Use or gift his project for Valentine’s Day.
Check back next month for some DIY LCG (Learn, Create, Grow): St. Patrick’s Day Project
