First Grade Arts and Crafts Activities
First grade is a year of firsts: your child's first full day of school, the first time she'll write a small story herself, and the first time she'll read a complete book cover to cover. We've got dozens of wacky reading and math activities, cool science experiments, and indoor and outdoor games to keep the learning fun.
Make Your Own Wrapping Paper
When it comes to wrapping paper, nothing beats homemade. Not only is it pretty, but it's good for kids, because by experimenting with paint and crayons and other decorative tools, they are also doing science, art, and small-motor muscle building that all lead to success at school.
Make a What-I'm-Thankful-For Placemat
Thanksgiving is a great excuse to pause and give thanks for more than what's sitting on the table. This activity gives kids a chance to make a cute collage of things that make them happy, and it's perfect décor for holiday dinner... or any day!
Grow a Holiday Bouquet!
If you're like lots of us, you've secretly decided that your green thumb is actually brown. Parents, take heart! This winter garden project is just about bomb-proof, and believe it or not, it might even make a great gift.
Make a Clock!
You thought this day would never come, but guess what, it's time! Time for your child to learn to TELL time, that is. Mastering this skill can seem hard at first, but hands-on practice helps. Here's a fun at-home activity that lets kids make a clock of their own.
Make an ALL ABOUT ME! Book
Kids love talking about themselves - their likes, their dislikes, and details about everything in between. Spark their interest in writing with a mini-book about their favorite subject - them!
So Silly!: Make Your Own Putty
Your putty should bounce and transfer pictures just like the store-bought stuff. Add food coloring or even a few sprinkles of glitter for your own take on the gooey original!
Smash Cascarones Art
In Mexico, many festival days, holidays, and saint day celebrations involve the making and smashing of cascarones. Introduce your child to this fantastic custom by helping him make is own!
Design Your Own Drums!
It is relatively simple to learn basic drumming techniques, and it produces a great sense of rhythm in the musician. With a little bit of assistance, your little one can make drums of all different shapes and sizes that produce a variety of sounds.
Kick and Tumble with Kid-Size Blocks!
Here's a great activity for rainy or sunny days! There's no need to visit toy stores to buy expensive building blocks. Your child can make his own giant, yet soft building blocks out of paper bags and newspaper.
Make a Prickly Porcupine!
This prickly porcupine project is more than just crafty fun! It will actually teach your child about the ingenious defense mechanism found in the common porcupine.
