1.  Don’t get frustrated if your child makes a mess.  Easier said than done sometimes, however, when we get frustrated our kids don’t have fun, bottom line! Prepare for these moments ahead of time by covering your work surface, putting your kids in old clothes, and using washable paints and glues.

2.  Use words of praise during crafting.  ”Wow!”, “Thant’s Awesome”, “Way to Go!”, and “You’re So Talented” are all encouraging to your child and make them feel great about the work they are doing!

3.  Get all of the materials for the craft organized ahead of time so your child does not lose interest while you are locating the glue gun or paint sets.

4.Display your child’s work of art when they are finished.  Let them show off and feel proud of their work!

5.  Don’t try to do the project for your kids.  Crafting isn’t perfect, and while it might not be the way you would do it, their way needs to be good enough!

6.  Get your child’s opinion on what they want to make, and give them some control over their creativity.  Your child will be more interested in making a craft they have chosen about a subject they are interested in.

7.  Create a project calendar to build excitement about the projects you will be making that month.  Build your calendar around holidays and create projects for a certain season like Christmas or Halloween.  Think beyond the holidays and build your calendar around themes such as animals, favorite books, science, etc!

8.  Go outside to craft! Don’t be limited by crafting at the kitchen or dining room table.  Set up a blanket under a shade tree and be inspired by nature!  It also makes cleanup a breeze!

9.  Make it a game!  Gather up all of your left over craft supplies from previous projects or craft kits and have a craft challenge!  Give awards for most creative, wackiest idea, and most supplies used in one project.  The possibilities are endless!

10.  Just have fun!  If your child sees you are having fun they will have fun, and craft time will become an amazing bonding experience for you both.

How do you encourage your child to craft?  Please feel free to share your tips in the comments section!  We would love to hear from you!