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Category: Kids Crafts & Activities

Milk Jug Ghosts Halloween Craft
Save your empty milk or water jugs! Create this Milk Jug Ghosts Halloween Craft this year to display around your home for Halloween.

My girls are at the age where they love to work on arts and crafts with me.

Recently, I found that we were throwing away so many useful items that could be turned into fun crafts — things like jars, toilet paper and paper towel rolls, containers, and more. Instead of being wasteful, we started turning our trash into creative treasures.

Paper Bag Ghost Luminaries

Milk Jug Ghost Faces

Ghost Crafts for Halloween

We go through milk often and milk jugs are a common household item that tend to make it into the recycle bins on a regular basis.

Milk Jug Pumpkins

We’ve also been going through nursery water jugs lately since my baby boy has moved on to formula.

The best part about these water jugs is that we don’t end up having to clean them out and they don’t end up smelling like sour milk!

If you have water jugs, I recommend using those for this Halloween craft, but if not, milk jugs work great, too — just make sure you wash them well before using.

Create Milk Jug Ghosts to use as a Halloween decoration this year with your kids with your used milk or water jugs!

This is a fun and simple craft to make with the kids and a very frugal activity, too.

We don’t purchase Halloween decorations anymore. Instead, I allow my children to help us make fun Halloween crafts to set around the house this time of year.

The best part about these crafts is the fact that you can literally toss them into the recycling bin when you are finished with them!

No need to save them and clutter up the house. Just bookmark this post and make them again next year with different faces!

Milk Jug Ghosts Halloween Craft

Here’s what you’ll need to make your Milk Jug Ghosts:

Halloween Milk Jug Ghost Materials
- Empty (and clean) milk or water jugs
- X-ACTO knife
- LED flameless tea light candles (small size)
- Black Sharpie marker
Directions:

1. Using a Sharpie marker, draw a ghost face on the side of the jug that has no label or writing. (You can find examples of faces at the end of this post.)

2. ***Step 2 for Adults only.*** Cut a small square opening using the X-Acto knife for the flameless candle on the opposite side of the jug at the bottom.

3. Turn on the flameless tea light candle and place it inside the jug.

4. Find a great place to display your Milk Jug Ghosts!
Milk Jug Ghosts Halloween Craft

Materials

Empty (and clean) milk or water jugs

X-ACTO knife

LED flameless tea light candles (small size)

Black Sharpie marker

Instructions

Using a Sharpie marker, draw a ghost face on the side of the jug that has no label or writing. (You can find examples of faces at the end of this post.)
***Step 2 for Adults only.*** Cut a small square opening using the X-Acto knife for the flameless candle on the opposite side of the jug at the bottom.
Turn on the flameless tea light candle and place it inside the jug.
Find a great place to display your Milk Jug Ghosts!
Looking for Milk Jug Ghost Faces? These ideas can help!

Ghost Faces

Ghost Faces

Ghost Faces

Ghost Faces
September 3, 2024
Free Printable Jack-o-Lantern Alphabet Candy Corn Game
The Halloween season is synonymous with candies, costumes, and pumpkins.

Why not combine the thrill of the festivities with a fun educational twist?

Introducing the Jack-o-Lantern Alphabet Candy Corn Game – an engaging way for your little goblins to learn their uppercase letters!

Candy Corn Crafts & Activities:
What’s the Game?

This printable game is designed with a cheerful jack-o-lantern who’s eager to be fed some delicious candy corns.

But, these aren’t just any candy corns.

Each piece boasts an uppercase letter of the alphabet, creating a delightful way for children to familiarize themselves with letters.

How to Set It Up:

Print the Jack-o-Lantern and Candy Corns: Start by printing out the jack-o-lantern and its array of lettered candy corns. It’s best to use card stock for durability.

Cut & Craft: Once printed, cut out the jack-o-lantern and its wide, welcoming mouth. Additionally, cut out the candy corn letters.

Prep the Container: Grab an empty container and glue or set the jack-o-lantern on it. Ensure you align the cut-out mouth of the pumpkin with the opening of the container. I found that a small plastic Tupperware container worked well for this activity.

Ready to Play: With container bag prepped, it’s time for the fun part! Have your child identify a letter on the candy corn and “feed” it to the jack-o-lantern by placing it inside the mouth.

Benefits:

Letter Recognition: It’s a hands-on way for children to familiarize themselves with uppercase letters.

Hand-Eye Coordination: Physically placing the candy corn into the container provides an added dimension of fine motor skill development.

Engaging & Seasonal: The Halloween theme makes learning captivating and timely.

Tips for Durability: Considering children’s natural enthusiasm (and occasional rough play), it’s highly recommended to laminate both the jack-o-lantern and the candy corn pieces. This ensures that your game withstands multiple uses and can even be passed down to younger siblings or friends.

Turn the Halloween season into a learning fest with this delightful Jack-o-Lantern Alphabet Candy Corn Game.

It’s not only festive and fun but also a fantastic way to help kids grow in their letter recognition.

So, print, play, and let the spooky educational fun begin!

Note: While the game highlights uppercase letters only, you can always get creative and expand on this idea to incorporate lowercase letters or even numbers.

Jack-o-Lantern Alphabet Candy Corn Game
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Frequently Asked Questions:

What age group is this game suitable for?

The game is primarily designed for preschoolers and kindergartners who are just getting acquainted with uppercase letters. However, older children can enjoy the activity as a fun Halloween-themed game too.

Do I need any special equipment to set this up?

Apart from a printer to print the game components, scissors for cutting, and possibly a laminating machine for durability, no other special equipment is required.

Can I use this game to teach lowercase letters too?

The provided printable focuses on uppercase letters. If you wish to teach lowercase letters, you can use the concept and create a similar version for lowercase letters.

How long does it typically take to set up the game?

Depending on your crafting skills, it can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes to cut, glue, and set up the game. If you choose to laminate the pieces, add a bit more time for that.

Can this game be played in a group setting?

Absolutely! This can be a great group activity for a Halloween party or a classroom setting. Children can take turns feeding the jack-o-lantern or even quiz each other on the letters.

What if my printed candy corns get lost or damaged?

Since you have the printable file, you can easily print out replacement candy corns as needed. Laminating them will also help prevent wear and tear.

Can I modify this game for other learning concepts?

Of course! The concept is versatile. You can create your own printable candy corns with numbers, shapes, or even words. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination.

Is it safe for toddlers?

While the game is fun and colorful, always supervise toddlers during play if you plan to incorporate real candy corn pieces in this activity in any way. Having a small bowl of candy corn treats can be a great reward incentive to use while playing the game.

Where can I find more educational games like this?

Stay tuned to our blog! We often share seasonal and educational printables and game ideas for children of all ages.

Can I share this game with friends and family?

Yes, you’re welcome to share this blog post with friends and family so that they can sign up to receive the free printable also.

We hope these FAQs cover any questions you might have about the Jack-o-Lantern Alphabet Candy Corn Game.

If you have more questions, feel free to drop a comment on the blog post, and we’ll be happy to help!
September 3, 2024
Printable Halloween Cat Coloring Pages

Enjoy these cute Halloween Cat Coloring pages this year! There are 2 sets to choose from:

Printable Halloween Cat Coloring Pages Set #1

Buy now on Etsy | Teachers Pay Teachers

Printable Halloween Cat Coloring Pages Set #2

Buy now on Etsy | Teachers Pay Teachers

August 13, 2024
Printable Halloween Maze Pack

Printable Maze Pack

Buy now on: Etsy | Teachers Pay Teachers

August 9, 2024
Printable Under the Sea Activity Pack
Printable Under the Sea Activity Pack

Buy Now on: Etsy

Dive into Fun with Our Printable Under the Sea Activity Set!

Looking for a way to keep your kids entertained while also sneaking in a bit of learning?

We’ve got the perfect solution for you – our 50-page Printable Under the Sea Activity Set!

This fantastic resource is packed with fun and educational activities that will transport your little ones to an exciting underwater adventure.

Sea Animal Coloring Page

Sea Animal Q Tip Painting

Sea Animal Handprint Art

Why You’ll Love This Activity Set

This Under the Sea Activity Set is not just about keeping kids busy; it’s about engaging their minds and sparking their creativity.

With a variety of activities designed to boost letter recognition, counting skills, matching abilities, and more, this set is a treasure trove of learning disguised as play.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re dealing with a rainy day, a long car ride, or just need a quiet afternoon activity at home, this printable set is your go-to solution.

It’s also an excellent resource for homeschooling, classroom fun, or adding a splash of excitement to a themed birthday party.

Easy to Use

All you need to do is download, print, and let the underwater exploration begin!

You can choose to print all 50 pages at once or select specific activities that suit your child’s interests and skill levels.

The activities are designed for minimal supervision, allowing for independent play while you get a few things done around the house.

Take It Anywhere

One of the best things about our activity set is its portability. Print it out and take it with you wherever you go.

It’s perfect for keeping kids entertained at home, during travel, at the park, or even at family gatherings.

Extra Tips for Busy Moms
- Laminate for Longevity: Consider laminating the pages so your kids can use dry-erase markers and enjoy the activities repeatedly.
- Story Time Pairing: Combine the activities with ocean-themed books to enhance the learning experience and make the connection between play and knowledge.
- Themed Activity Day: Create a whole day of ocean fun with these activities. Add some themed snacks, a movie, and maybe even a DIY ocean craft to keep the excitement going.
- Reward System: Motivate your little ones by using the completion of activities as a reward system. A small prize or treat for each set of completed pages can make the learning experience even more fun.
What’s Inside the Activity Set?

Here’s a sneak peek at the variety of activities included in the set:
- About You
- Missing Alphabet
- Missing Vowels
- Color by Letter
- Under the Sea Addition
- Count Under the Sea
- Match Under the Sea
- Find, Color, Count
- Spelling Boxes
- Drawing
- Tracing
- Coloring
- Ocean Life & Wavy Lines
- Connect Under the Sea
- Maze
- Fish Fun
- Color Match
- Fish Symmetry
- Fish in the Jar
With this Printable Under the Sea Activity Set, you can effortlessly combine fun and learning for your little ones.

It’s a great way to keep them engaged, entertained, and educated, all while giving you a bit of a break.

So, why wait? Dive into the fun today and watch your kids explore the wonders of the ocean from the comfort of your home!

Buy Now on: Etsy
July 2, 2024
15+ Summer Activities for Kids
15 Fun Summer Activities to Keep Your Kids Entertained

Summer is here, and while it’s a season of fun and relaxation, it can also be challenging for busy moms to keep their kids entertained.

If you’re looking for activities that are both engaging and easy to manage, I’ve got you covered.

Here are 15 fun summer activities that will keep your kids happy and entertained, giving you some much-needed time to relax.

DIY Waterpark in the Backyard

Set up a mini waterpark in your backyard with sprinklers, splash pad, slip ‘n slide, and kiddie pools. It’s a great way for kids to cool off and have fun without leaving home.

You may also want to invest in an inflatable water slide for kids to have fun in the summer sun!

Nature Scavenger Hunt

Have the kids go on a hunt in nature to look for items such as different leaves, rocks, or flowers!

Print this nature scavenger hunt to make seeking and finding fun for everyone.

Watercolor Hawaiian Paper Leis Craft

This craft is perfect for a sunny afternoon. Let your kids create beautiful Hawaiian paper leis with watercolors, scissors, and string.

It’s a great way to encourage creativity and keep them busy.

Lemon Painting Activity

Let your kids explore their artistic side by using lemons to create unique prints and patterns on paper.

It’s a fun, sensory activity that also teaches them about shapes and colors.

Backyard Camping

Set up a tent in the backyard, make s’mores, and tell stories. It’s a great way to have an adventure without the hassle of leaving home.

Read more about our tips for camping with kids!

Bubble Fun

Create homemade bubble solutions and let the kids have fun blowing bubbles. You can even make giant bubbles with a DIY bubble wand.

Outdoor Obstacle Course

Set up an obstacle course using household items like hula hoops, cones, and pool noodles. It’s a great way to get kids moving and burn off some energy.

Water Balloon Toss

A water balloon toss is a classic summer activity. It’s simple, fun, and perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

Bunch O Balloons are our top pick for quick fill water balloons!

Chalk Art

Give the kids some sidewalk chalk and let them create masterpieces on the driveway or sidewalk. You can even set themes or challenges for their drawings.

Learn how to make your own sidewalk chalk paint!

Ice Cream Making

Make homemade ice cream with your kids. It’s a delicious way to spend an afternoon, and they’ll love enjoying the fruits of their labor.

Your kids may like this Design Your Own Ice Cream printable. They can also Design an Ice Cream Pop.

DIY Bird Feeders

Craft bird feeders using pine cones, peanut butter, and birdseed. Hang them in the yard and watch the birds come to visit.

Science Experiments

Simple science experiments, like making a volcano with baking soda and vinegar or creating slime, are both educational and entertaining.

Kids also love this fizzy fun baking soda and vinegar experiment!

Picnic in the Park

Pack a picnic and head to the park. Let the kids run around and play while you enjoy some downtime.

Gardening

Start a small container garden and let the kids help with planting, watering, and picking vegetables or flowers. It’s a great way to teach responsibility and enjoy the outdoors.

Reading Time

Create a cozy reading nook outside with blankets and pillows. Let your kids pick out their favorite books and spend some quiet time reading together.

Bonus Activities:

Summer Themed Printables

Printables are another great way to keep kids entertained indoors during the summer months.

Here are some of our top summer printables that you may be interested in printing this summer for the kids!
These activities are not only fun but also easy to set up and manage. They’ll keep your kids entertained while giving you some time to relax and enjoy the summer.

Whether you’re crafting, playing games, exploring the outdoors, or completing printables indoors, these activities will help create wonderful summer memories for your family.

I hope these ideas help you have a fantastic summer with your kids! Feel free to share your favorite summer activities in the comments below.

Happy summer!
July 1, 2024
Lemon Painting Activity for Kids
Did you know that you can create art with fresh fruit and paint?! Lemon Painting is a fun paint activity for the kids to try this summer!

Lemon Painting Fun: An Engaging Activity for Kids

Looking for a fun and engaging activity that your kids will love?

Try lemon painting! This art project not only keeps the little ones entertained but also stimulates their creativity and fine motor skills.

Plus, it’s super easy to set up and can be done almost anywhere. Here’s why lemon painting is the perfect activity for your kids.

You may also like:

Printable Lemonade Stand Dramatic Play Kit

Why Lemon Painting is Popular with Kids

Lemon painting is a unique and exciting way for kids to explore their artistic side.

Using real lemons to paint provides a sensory experience that traditional paintbrushes just can’t match.

The texture of the lemon, the scent of the citrus, and the vibrant yellow color all come together to create a multi-sensory activity that engages children on multiple levels.

Versatile and Convenient

One of the best things about lemon painting is its versatility. This activity can be done indoors or outdoors, making it perfect for any weather.

Set up a painting station in the kitchen or take it to the backyard for some outdoor fun.

The cleanup is minimal, especially if you use washable paint, so you can enjoy this activity without worrying about a huge mess.

When and Where to Enjoy Lemon Painting

Lemon painting is a fantastic activity for various occasions. Here are some ideas:
- Summer Afternoons: Keep kids busy on a hot summer day with a refreshing art project.
- Birthday Parties: Set up a lemon painting station at your child’s birthday party for a unique and memorable activity.
- Rainy Days: Brighten up a gloomy day with the cheerful color of lemons.
- Art Time: Incorporate lemon painting into your regular arts and crafts time for a fun twist.
Tips for a Smooth Painting Session

To ensure a successful lemon painting session, here are a few helpful tips:
- Use Washable Paint: Choose washable paint to make cleanup easy.
- Protect Surfaces: Lay down some newspaper or an old tablecloth to protect your surfaces.
- Have Towels Handy: Keep some paper towels nearby to dab the lemons and wipe little hands.
- Encourage Creativity: Let kids experiment with different patterns and techniques. They might surprise you with their creativity!
Creative Uses for Lemon Paintings

Once your kids have finished their lemon masterpieces, there are plenty of ways to use their artwork:
- Wall Art: Frame the paintings and hang them up in your child’s room or the kitchen.
- Greeting Cards: Cut the paintings into smaller pieces and use them to create unique greeting cards.
- Gift Wrap: Use the artwork as homemade wrapping paper for small gifts.
Lemon painting is an easy, affordable, and incredibly fun activity that your kids will love. It’s perfect for busy moms looking to keep their children engaged and creative.

So, grab some lemons, paint, and paper, and let the artistic adventures begin!

Happy painting!

Lemon Painting Activity for Kids

Supplies:
- lemon
- paper plate
- yellow washable paint
- white paper
- paper towel
Directions:

Cut the lemon in half.

Gently dab the lemon half that you will be using to paint with on a paper towel to remove excess juice. It will be ok to get some juice on the paper when painting – it will dry.

Pour paint onto the paper plate. Shake the plate gently to try to even out the paint.

Dip the lemon half into the paint. There may be excess paint on the lemon half. You can use the paper plate to dab some of the excess paint off.

Gently press the lemon half onto the paper.

Remove and repeat the process above, stamping the lemon half onto the paper desired amount of times.

Allow painting plenty of time to dry before displaying!
Lemon Painting

Materials

lemon

paper plate

yellow washable paint

white paper

paper towel

Instructions

Cut lemon in half.
Gently dab the lemon half that you will be using to paint with on a paper towel to remove excess juice. It will be ok to get some juice on the paper when painting – it will dry.
Pour paint onto the paper plate. Shake the plate gently to try to even out the paint.
Dip the lemon half into the paint. There may be excess paint on the lemon half. You can use the paper plate to dab some of the excess paint off.
Gently press the lemon half onto the paper.
Remove and repeat the process above, stamping the lemon half onto the paper desired amount of times.
Allow painting plenty of time to dry before displaying!
July 1, 2024