11 Ways to Have a Creative Summer with Kids

Now that summer vacation is fully under way, there’s more time for art projects, open-ended play, experimenting, and games.

There’s more time for creativity.

I shared many of these ways to have a more creative summer in my ARTletter a few weeks back then realized that I wanted to add a bit more and share it on the blog as well.

So here goes…

11 Ways to Have a Creative Summer with Kids

1.  Don’t over schedule. In fact, let the kids get bored sometimes.

“I think it’s necessary to let kids get bored once in a while—that’s how they learn to be creative.” – Kim Raver

2. Try some new-to-you art activities.

• 21 Outdoor Art Ideas for Kids
• 13 Favorite Summer Art Projects for Kids
• 11 More Favorite Summer Art Activities for Kids

3. Experiment with different materials, techniques, imagery, etc, as you revisit favorite art activities. Ask “what if” questions then follow through to see what happens.

• Watercolor Techniques for Kids :: Experimenting
• Glue Art on Canvas with Watercolors
• Oil Pastel Painting with Kids

4. Get outside and use nature as your inspiration.

• Nature Art for Kids :: 33 Activities to Try

5. Play art games.

• 12 Kids Art Games for Fun & Creativity

6. Have an artful lemonade stand. Spend as much time and creativity in building and decorating the stand and making the signs as making the lemonade. Sell art, too, if you like. Or melted crayon rocks.

7. Encourage open-ended play.

• Set up a Kid-Friendly Backyard for Active Play
• Creative Gifts for Boys and Girls
• Kids Dioramas and Small World Play Ideas
• The Toys and Tools We Want Our Kids to Have
• Construction Toys for Kids :: 7 Ways My Kids Use Magnetic Tiles

8. Be mindful of how you talk to kids about their art. 

9. Experiment with the art of strewing. 

10. Move your kids’ art space closer to the heart of the family action, if appropriate.

11. Turn the beach vacation into an opportunity for creativity.

Here’s wishing you a creative summer!

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