Discover the top 10 DIY crafts for kids to boost creativity and reduce screen time

Cocoon Cotton
Jun 9
4 min read

Updated: Jun 13

DIY crafts are great for keeping kids creative and away from screens. They let kids use their imagination and help parents bond with them. For kids aged 2 to 13, these crafts will make afternoons fun. Let's explore these ideas, including Cocoon Cotton Coloring T-Shirts.

Coloring T-Shirts by Cocoon Cotton for kids

This T-shirt is more than just clothing. It's a canvas for kids' imagination. Cocoon Cotton's T-shirts are made for coloring and recoloring. They come with fun designs like dinosaurs and unicorns.

Just use the fabric-safe colors provided, and your child can start coloring. The colors are washable, so they can try new designs every time. These T-shirts are great for reducing screen time and boosting creativity.

Check out Cocoon Cotton

Paper Plate Animals

Transform ordinary paper plates into your child’s favorite animals. This classic craft is endlessly customizable and perfect for all ages.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Gather paper plates, colored paper, glue, safety scissors, and crayons or markers.
Choose an animal and cut out ears, noses, or whiskers from colored paper.
Glue the features onto the plate and let your child decorate with crayons or markers.
Add googly eyes for extra fun!

YouTube Tutorial: Paper Plate Animals

DIY Sticker Book

Help your child make their own sticker book. You'll need a notebook and stickers. They can arrange stickers and draw around them. It's a fun way to tell stories and improve organizational skills.

Pom-Pom Bouquet

This craft makes colorful flowers from pom-poms and pipe cleaners. It teaches kids about colors and patterns. Let them pick their favorite colors and create a beautiful bouquet.

Painting with Old Cars or Trains

Use old toy cars or trains to paint. Dip their wheels in paint and roll them on paper. It's a fun way to recycle toys and try new painting methods.

Salt Dough Ornaments

Skip the store and make soft, safe playdough at home.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Mix 2 cups flour, 1 cup salt, 1 tablespoon oil, and 1 cup water (add food coloring if desired).
Knead until smooth.
Store in an airtight container for future use.

Cardboard Box Cities

Save large cardboard boxes for your kids to build a city. They can paint and decorate it. It's a great way to encourage creativity and problem-solving.

Nature Collages

Bring the outdoors inside with a nature-inspired collage.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Take a short nature walk to collect leaves, flowers, twigs, and small stones.
Glue your findings onto a sturdy piece of paper or cardboard.
Add paint or crayons to finish your masterpiece.

Monster Puppets

Unmatched socks find new life as hilarious puppets, sparking imaginative storytelling.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Find a clean sock and gather buttons, felt, yarn, and glue.
Glue buttons or felt pieces for eyes, a yarn mouth, and any other fun features.
Let the glue dry, then put on a puppet show!

11. Popsicle Stick Picture Frames

Frame your child’s artwork or favorite photo with a handmade popsicle stick frame.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Arrange popsicle sticks in a square or rectangle and glue the corners.
Paint or decorate with stickers and glitter.
Attach a photo to the back, and add a magnet or string to display.

12. Egg Carton Critters

Turn leftover egg cartons into adorable bugs or animals.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Cut out individual cups from an egg carton.
Paint them and let dry.
Add pipe cleaners for legs, googly eyes, and felt for wings or ears.

YouTube Tutorial: Egg Carton Animals

13. DIY Dreamcatchers

A whimsical craft that also introduces children to cultural traditions.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Use a paper plate or embroidery hoop as the base.
Cut out the center, wrap the rim with yarn, and weave additional yarn across.
Decorate with beads, feathers, and ribbons.

YouTube Tutorial: Easy Dreamcatcher for Kids

14. Recycled Bottle Planters

Teach children about sustainability by turning plastic bottles into mini gardens.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Cut a clean plastic bottle in half (adult supervision required).
Decorate the outside with paint or stickers.
Add soil and plant seeds or small plants.

This craft ties in beautifully with our focus on Organic Cotton Benefits for Kids Clothing, highlighting eco-friendly choices.

15. Button Art Canvas

Turn spare buttons into colorful, textured works of art.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Draw a simple outline (like a heart or rainbow) on canvas or thick paper.
Glue buttons inside the outline, mixing sizes and colors.
Let dry, then hang up your child’s unique creation!

Expert Tips for Crafting with Kids

Choose age-appropriate materials and supervise when using scissors or glue.
Let creativity flow—there’s no “wrong” way to create!
Protect surfaces with old newspapers or a washable tablecloth.
Celebrate your child’s efforts and display their art proudly.

For more tips on choosing safe and comfortable materials, visit our post on Best Fabrics for Kids.

Cocoon Cotton Coloring T-Shirts (Again, Because They’re That Amazing!)

If you've tried it once, do it again. There are many designs like dinosaurs and fairies. Your child will always find something new.

These T-shirts are perfect for any event. They're also easy to wash, making them safe for kids. This means endless fun for them and peace for you.

These activities are more than just fun. They help kids learn important skills and reduce stress. They also boost creativity.

Whether it's coloring a T-shirt or making a cardboard city, these crafts inspire kids. They encourage kids to think differently and create something special. Plus, they're a great way for parents and kids to spend quality time together.

Ready to add magic to your child's life? Start with Cocoon Cotton's Coloring T-Shirts. They're not just a product; they're an experience. Shop now and see your child's face light up: Shop Cocoon Cotton.

Whether your child is a budding artist or simply loves getting messy, these 10 easy DIY crafts for kids at home are sure to spark joy and learning. With just a few supplies and a dash of imagination, you’ll create not only beautiful projects but also lasting memories together. For all your creative adventures, don’t forget to explore our soft and sustainable kids’ clothing from Cocoon Cotton—crafting comfort and creativity, hand in hand.