These simple arts and crafts activities are simple and are quick low prep set up after school or whenever you need them. A FREE printable is available, too, for easy reference.
I created a list for my friend Jen of 10 simple arts and crafts activities to set up for after school (or whenever). Sort of a cheat sheet that she could tape inside her art cupboard door and refer to for quick inspiration. For each activity, I listed what to set out, a brief description of the process, and a few possible variations.
And since I think we can all use ideas and reminders, here’s the list (make sure to grab the printable as well as an easy reference!):
Set out: Construction paper, scissors, hole punch, and tape or glue stick
The process: Let kids fold, cut, and decorate paper.
Variations: Try snowflakes, origami, paper hats, boats, sculptures, mobiles, fans, collage, paper dolls, pop-ups, flaps, etc.
3. Contact Paper Suncatcher
Set out: Clear contact paper (cut into squares and taped to the table sticky side up) and colored tissue paper
The process: Let the kids tear or cut the tissue paper into pieces then stick them to the contact paper. Cover with another sheet of contact paper and hang in the window.
Variations: Use flowers, leaves, and other nature items instead of tissue paper. Try ribbons, lace, or feathers.
4. Collage
Set out: Cardstock, a glue bottle, and collage items such as beans, feathers, and buttons.
The process: Let kids glue collage items to the cardstock as desired.
Variations: Draw a picture then fill in with collage items. Glue collage items to a cardboard box for a 3-D experience.
5. Toothpick Sculptures
Set out: Toothpicks and marshmallows (stale works best)
The process: Let kids build using the toothpicks and marshmallows.
Variations: Other easy sculptural activities include pipe cleaners, straws, and tape, playdough and tools, cardboard boxes and glue, bread dough and raisins.
6. Q-tip Pointillism
Set out: Paint, paper, and Q-tips
The process: Let kids dip Q-tips in paint then press on paper to make a picture with dots.
Variations: Try cotton balls for larger dots. Use Do-A-Dot markers or regular markers. Try two primary colors together to see if you can create the illusion of color mixing.
7. Printing with Fruits & Vegetables
Set out: Paper, paints, and one or more fruits such as a lemon or apple cut in half.
The process: Dip fruit in paint then press to paper.
Variations: Try printing with other objects such as leaves, animal figure feet, kitchen tools. Get out the stamp pad and stamps. Try fingerprint art.
8. Hole “Challenge” Drawings
Set out: Paper with a hole cut out of it and a pen
The process: Let kids draw on the hole paper as they see fit.
Variations: Try different size, shape, or number of holes. Cut the paper into different shapes. Use white paper, colored construction paper, or large poster board. Glue a paper shape to a piece of paper. Offer different drawing tools. Try this with paints or collage items.
9. Masking Tape Art
Set out: Paper, scissors, and masking tape
The process: Let kids cut or tear masking tape into pieces and adhere to paper in any way desired.
Variations: Offer multiple colors and widths of tape. Draw or paint over the masking tape art then remove the tape.
10. Simply Drawing / Simply Painting
Set out: Paper and drawing tool or paints
The process: Let kids draw and paint! No need to get fancy.
Variations: You can vary the papers, sizes, kinds of paint, kinds of drawing tools…
So there you have it. 10 simple arts and crafts activities to set up for after school. Quick and low prep activities. I have put them in one file you.
Here’s a FREE printable of these simple arts and crafts activities.
Great ideas for art that’s easy to do with the materials that are on hand. I like setting out art supplies or art books that we haven’t used for a while to see what creative things happen — sometimes an art technique that we had gotten a bit tired from overuse will seem fresh and new again after a little break and with the colors and mood of a new season to add inspiration to our creativity!
Yesterday my daughter had a friend over for an art playdate (2nd grade readers) and they just read the list and decided which one they wanted to do….inspired me to have a few more ideas ready…such independent artists!! Thanks Jean!
Would someone mind sending me the list of 10 simple art activities. For some reason, when I click on it I get a blank page. I’m eager to try them with my daughter.
Thanks!
Pearly [email protected]
I love this list! What kind of glue do you use for the collage — white elmer’s glue? My three year old daughter is in love with glue-sticks, but they aren’t so great for heavier 3D stuff. (And when we use glitter glue or white glue she squeezes out such copious amounts of the stuff that it becomes a little, uh, challenging to work with). Any good glue tips? Thanks! :^)
Those are great in their simplicity but really sound like a lot of fun! I generally don’t enjoy the mess of setting artsy stuff up but these feel very manageable to me! My children thank you!!!
We use both. Glue sticks for paper collage; glue bottles for most everything else. Maia (and most of her friends) used to do the same thing with glue bottles — squeeze and squeeze until there were puddles on the paper! It was as much (or more!) about squeezing the glue out as using the glue for anything (like sticking two things together). I just went with it because she seemed to love it so much and because glue is so cheap. If you’d rather not, here are two ideas:
First, you can put some glue in a little dish and use it with a small brush or a q-tip. This will work for most collage materials but also limits the amount of glue used.
Second, perhaps try to help your daughter get her squeezing fix in another way. Do some puffy painting: https://artfulparent.typepad.com/artfulparent/2008/03/playing-with-puffy-paint.html. Put water in an empty glue bottle for her to squeeze outside. Let her squeeze icing or batter or something out of an icing bag or plastic bag with a hole in the corner.
And realize that this too shall pass…
This list is fabulous! Do you mind if I print a few copies to include with my usual birthday party gift of art supplies? I think the parents would really appreciate the ideas.
Hi,
I am also getting a blank page and the list sounds exactly what I am after as my two girls are always asking to do art & craft activities.
would you please email me the pdf as well.
Thanks
Kathleen
This is brilliant, thank you! Perfect for those of us who don’t feel totally in their own element when thinking up arty activities for our kids.
I’ve been lurking and reading your blog for ages, but I’ve got the courage up to ask now – any chance of a similar list to encourage those kids who aren’t always very engaged by art activities. My little one usually plays with the equipment for a few minutes and then wanders off. He’s 2 and a half now, so I think I need to be a bit more creative in what I am offering him!!
I’m excited to print out this list. I love doing art with my kids but sometimes I run out of ideas. I’m pulling up a blank page as well. Can you please send the list to [email protected]??
Thanks so much!
With the end of the school year fast approaching and admittedly a little panic setting in, your ideas will be my go to for rainy days. Thx for sharing!
Thanks for taking the legwork out of this! I’m printing this & taping it on the inside of my arts & crafts cupboard. And reposting at https://meandthekids.net/!
As an Art educator, I appreciate and adore this list!! Great ideas. As a child, I was always “bored” and wanting to create. I’m still the same! But this list should be printed out by all parents and posted to the fridge for those “bored” moments! Thank you.
I strongly think that afterschools dont have any negative impact on children or there are any consequences due to these programs.They do contribute to the development of children in a huge number of ways.Also I recently found this site https://www.afterschoolproviders.com/ where one could find quality afterschools for children.
57 Comments
Kathy
May 19, 2011 at 8:23 amGreat ideas for art that’s easy to do with the materials that are on hand. I like setting out art supplies or art books that we haven’t used for a while to see what creative things happen — sometimes an art technique that we had gotten a bit tired from overuse will seem fresh and new again after a little break and with the colors and mood of a new season to add inspiration to our creativity!
Darcy Troutman
May 19, 2011 at 8:25 amA great list!! Thank you!!
smilymel
May 19, 2011 at 8:27 amgreat list – sometimes its great just to have a reminder of the simple things. Thanks!
MaryLea @ pink and green mama
May 19, 2011 at 8:45 amThis is great Jean!! I’ve printed mine and taped it to the art cupboard.
I also shared with my readers on Facebook!! : )
Isil
May 19, 2011 at 8:59 amGreat list,thank you very much. We made the marshmallow sculptures last week,great fun!
[email protected]
May 19, 2011 at 9:13 amYesterday my daughter had a friend over for an art playdate (2nd grade readers) and they just read the list and decided which one they wanted to do….inspired me to have a few more ideas ready…such independent artists!! Thanks Jean!
the color palette: exploring art with kids
May 19, 2011 at 9:29 amgreat ideas my girls always love when I set up something as a surprise for them to craft or make :)
Rhianna
May 19, 2011 at 9:47 amAwesome ideas thank you so much for sharing it
Martha Bernhard
May 19, 2011 at 9:53 amTHANK YOU SO MUCH. WHAT A BIG HELP!
Carrie @Rhubarb Sky
May 19, 2011 at 12:36 pmThis is great! Thank you. I love it when I’m on my game and the kiddo comes home to an art project after school.
Jean Van't Hul
May 19, 2011 at 12:39 pmThanks! I have my print-out taped up, too! We all need reminders!
Jean Van't Hul
May 19, 2011 at 12:40 pmI was just thinking about setting out marshmallows and toothpicks today!
Kari
May 19, 2011 at 12:41 pmThis is wonderful, Jean! Thanks so so much!
Jean Van't Hul
May 19, 2011 at 12:41 pmThat’s awesome, Jen. Do you have any art books around for them to peruse? THe library has a lot of MaryAnn Kohl’s books…
Jean Van't Hul
May 19, 2011 at 12:42 pmMine, too!
Jean Van't Hul
May 19, 2011 at 12:43 pmDitto about being “on my game.” I’m not always, but I try!
Melissa
May 19, 2011 at 1:04 pmThank you!
[email protected]
May 19, 2011 at 2:25 pmWould someone mind sending me the list of 10 simple art activities. For some reason, when I click on it I get a blank page. I’m eager to try them with my daughter.
Thanks!
Pearly
[email protected]
Melinda-LookWhatMomFound..and Dad too!
May 19, 2011 at 2:52 pmI really like the qtip art idea
julia
May 19, 2011 at 3:50 pmThis is GREAT! Thank you! I will use it at home and my classroom too!
Thank you!
Julia
Adelle F.
May 19, 2011 at 4:09 pmGREAT post!
Adelle F.
May 19, 2011 at 4:11 pmBut I’m getting a blank page, too! Jean, are you able to email that directly? [email protected]
Chapter Forty
May 19, 2011 at 6:58 pmWhat a wonderful resource your blog is. Your list will be well utilised here.
Jean Van't Hul
May 19, 2011 at 8:45 pmI’ll send it to you… -Jean
Jean Van't Hul
May 19, 2011 at 8:48 pmOh no! Yes, I’ll email the pdf directly.
[email protected]
May 19, 2011 at 10:08 pmThanks so much. I just printed it out and I am ready to go for tomorrow. You are so kind.
Maria
May 19, 2011 at 10:28 pmThank you so much!
simplegirl
May 19, 2011 at 11:44 pmwhat a great resource! thank you!!
Naturally Chic Mama
May 20, 2011 at 1:21 amAwesome! Thank you so much for sharing!
cheap mlb jerseys
May 20, 2011 at 4:10 amThis is great Jean!! I’ve printed mine and taped it to the art cupboard.
Suzie
May 20, 2011 at 5:49 amBlank page for me too – any chance of an email? Thanks Jean, Suzie ([email protected]) PS: Love love love your blog!
The Artful Parent
May 20, 2011 at 9:21 amI wonder why some of you are getting blank pages? Whenever I try it, it works for me. Hmm… Yes, I will email you the pdf! -Jean
Carly
May 20, 2011 at 9:49 amSorry Jean, can you email it to me too please? All I see is grey. [email protected]
Thanks so much!
The Artful Parent
May 20, 2011 at 10:03 amYep!
Jeanie
May 20, 2011 at 12:03 pmI love this list! What kind of glue do you use for the collage — white elmer’s glue? My three year old daughter is in love with glue-sticks, but they aren’t so great for heavier 3D stuff. (And when we use glitter glue or white glue she squeezes out such copious amounts of the stuff that it becomes a little, uh, challenging to work with). Any good glue tips? Thanks! :^)
ania
May 20, 2011 at 2:21 pmThank you!
Lily
May 20, 2011 at 3:18 pmThose are great in their simplicity but really sound like a lot of fun! I generally don’t enjoy the mess of setting artsy stuff up but these feel very manageable to me! My children thank you!!!
CZD
May 20, 2011 at 5:07 pmWould you send it to me too? I also keep getting a blank page.
Thanks so much for this wonderful blog. It’s an inspiration!
[email protected]
Jean Van't Hul
May 20, 2011 at 8:40 pmWe use both. Glue sticks for paper collage; glue bottles for most everything else. Maia (and most of her friends) used to do the same thing with glue bottles — squeeze and squeeze until there were puddles on the paper! It was as much (or more!) about squeezing the glue out as using the glue for anything (like sticking two things together). I just went with it because she seemed to love it so much and because glue is so cheap. If you’d rather not, here are two ideas:
First, you can put some glue in a little dish and use it with a small brush or a q-tip. This will work for most collage materials but also limits the amount of glue used.
Second, perhaps try to help your daughter get her squeezing fix in another way. Do some puffy painting: https://artfulparent.typepad.com/artfulparent/2008/03/playing-with-puffy-paint.html. Put water in an empty glue bottle for her to squeeze outside. Let her squeeze icing or batter or something out of an icing bag or plastic bag with a hole in the corner.
And realize that this too shall pass…
Julie
May 21, 2011 at 8:30 amGreat list! Thanks!
megan
May 21, 2011 at 6:03 pmThis list is fabulous! Do you mind if I print a few copies to include with my usual birthday party gift of art supplies? I think the parents would really appreciate the ideas.
lily
May 22, 2011 at 6:40 pmhow long does it take until chicken pox go away?
Jean Van't Hul
May 22, 2011 at 8:36 pmFine by me!
kathleen
May 25, 2011 at 7:46 amHi,
I am also getting a blank page and the list sounds exactly what I am after as my two girls are always asking to do art & craft activities.
would you please email me the pdf as well.
Thanks
Kathleen
Tassy
May 25, 2011 at 8:19 amThis is brilliant, thank you! Perfect for those of us who don’t feel totally in their own element when thinking up arty activities for our kids.
I’ve been lurking and reading your blog for ages, but I’ve got the courage up to ask now – any chance of a similar list to encourage those kids who aren’t always very engaged by art activities. My little one usually plays with the equipment for a few minutes and then wanders off. He’s 2 and a half now, so I think I need to be a bit more creative in what I am offering him!!
Donnavie
June 3, 2011 at 11:17 amI’m excited to print out this list. I love doing art with my kids but sometimes I run out of ideas. I’m pulling up a blank page as well. Can you please send the list to [email protected]??
Thanks so much!
courtney
June 13, 2011 at 5:14 pmhi,
was wondering if i could get this list sent to me to as its coming up blank..
thanks
[email protected]
Lea
June 16, 2011 at 2:11 amWith the end of the school year fast approaching and admittedly a little panic setting in, your ideas will be my go to for rainy days. Thx for sharing!
Amberley
June 19, 2011 at 7:57 amHi Jean, I just found your blog and love it! I am getting a blank screen as well, I would love an email, if you have the time! Thank you
Meghan
September 1, 2011 at 2:19 pmThanks for taking the legwork out of this! I’m printing this & taping it on the inside of my arts & crafts cupboard. And reposting at https://meandthekids.net/!
Nicole
October 25, 2011 at 3:14 pmThank you for this list! I printed it out last spring for my own use and have shared it with friends here:
https://lelandmops.wordpress.com/2011/10/25/rain-rain-please-please-stay-weve-got-lots-to-do-today/
vania
October 28, 2011 at 2:00 pmhi there
i too would love this but get a blank screen. can you email it to me? My son is now 2 and we would love this!
em
July 10, 2012 at 9:30 pmLove your blog. I am also getting a balnk screen and would love this lsit. Can you please email me? [email protected]
Thank you!
Kathy
September 23, 2012 at 4:13 pmim having the same problem, there is just a blank page.. thanks Kathy
chloe bennett
November 27, 2013 at 11:04 amAs an Art educator, I appreciate and adore this list!! Great ideas. As a child, I was always “bored” and wanting to create. I’m still the same! But this list should be printed out by all parents and posted to the fridge for those “bored” moments! Thank you.
Amanda Medlin
January 19, 2014 at 7:56 pmLOVE your blog! Would you mind emailing me the list as well. Thanks! amandamedlin1 (at) gmail (dot) com. Thanks!
Susanne dominic
May 10, 2019 at 5:24 amI strongly think that afterschools dont have any negative impact on children or there are any consequences due to these programs.They do contribute to the development of children in a huge number of ways.Also I recently found this site https://www.afterschoolproviders.com/ where one could find quality afterschools for children.