Crafting With A Toddler Without The Frustration

When it comes to crafts, I’m a little funny. I like it to be clean, organized and end up looking perfect. Easier said than done with a toddler. I still struggle sometimes to let Miss 4 do her thing. I try to focus on a few things to make it a little easier and I wanted to share them with you!

Pick a craft and check for materials BEFORE telling them it’s craft time.

It gets stressful having Ahria at my side asking over and over what craft we are doing while I try and make a decision. And then if I make a decision and we don’t have the proper materials… Well, I think you know how that ends.

Set the mood.

Tell your babe that this is going to be exciting and fun but that they can’t get “jump-y”. Let them know that they have to follow directions and there will be materials that we don’t want spilled – but don’t dwell. A quick reminder to be cautious and then move right along to the fun. Maybe even offer a sticker for their reward chart if they do a great job!

Let them get messy!

There’s lots of giggles to be had while painting your own arm! I purposely pick messy crafts before bath time. Then there isn’t a struggle to get her in the tub AND she has her fun. I’ve never had to worry about crayons on the wall or paint on the furniture because I let her do her thing in a proper setting.

It doesn’t have to be perfect.

This is a tough one for me. I have to remind myself that it doesn’t matter if the final product isn’t what I expected. What matters is that she had a good time and is learning how to use the supplies.

Think simple for little ones.

If you’re doing crafts with a toddler, don’t pick something with a lot of detail or small pieces to cut out. The idea isn’t to have you do the craft for them. When it becomes too detailed, it becomes stressful for parent and babe. Think simple.

Have cleaning supplies in reach.

Messes are bound to happen. If you have cleaning supplies ready, it eliminates the possibility of spills being smeared everywhere while you are off looking for paper towels!