The other day I was visiting with my aunt and the topic of this column came up. I mentioned that I was planning to do a series of columns with ideas for things to do with kids over the summer. She quipped, “Does it involve duct tape and rope?” I admit to laughing, but it did give me an idea. No, don’t worry – my children are not currently wrapped in tape, but I did do some searching.
If you are looking for some things to do with the kids to help while away the hours, I found a great website that has all kinds of fun ideas! Of course, many crafts include string, duct tape, yarn, and so on. I was very excited to see duct tape purses, wallets, and even flip-flops! Kids can make a duct tape tie for father’s day this weekend! Wouldn’t dad just love to wear that tie!
Looking through the duct tape at the stores in town, I found a wide variety of colors: fluorescent, tie-die, industrial gray, maroon, and others. Duct tape has come a long way from when I was a kid! I have since informed my husband that we need to buy some duct tape. Of course, being the patient man he is, he simply looked at me and said, “Ok.” He didn’t even ask why. When I explained it to him anyway, he seemed a bit concerned about the flip flops – just think, we can make several pairs – we can all have matching ones!! This did not impress him. In fact, he went back to doing his work on a computer, shaking his head at me the whole time.
The website I found is called Scouting Web and can be seen at http://www.scoutingweb.com/scoutingweb/program/craftsgeneral1.htm if you are interested. There are so many cool, inexpensive project ideas. Tie die shirts, stamping, beads, jewelry, weaving, and others. There is sure to be something your kids will enjoy doing while keeping their hands and minds occupied! I even found some cool ideas for parents. I’m thinking the stress ball looks easy enough to make, and would sure come in handy sometimes!
During the summer it is easy to be lazy – I know it is for us! However, keeping the kids busy and challenged with various activities will make the time go by more easily, and keep them in mental shape for the restart of school in August!
Happy crafting to you – I’m going to get some tape! I’m thinking my dad needs a new tie…..
Christine Moore currently holds a degree from Howard Payne University and is actively working toward a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. Married with four children, Christine teaches 6th grade reading in Brownwood and has been working in education at various levels for the past 14 years. Her husband, Jeremy, owns a local company that specializes in web design, custom computer builds, and on-location repair called DreamSoft Design at www.dreamsoftdesign.com. Christine welcomes your questions and comments and would love to hear from you!
