Fun & Educational Craft Ideas for Kids

No screen time and yes to making something with your bare hands? Sign us up! Crafting is a fantastic way for kids to learn, grow, and create lasting memories, and finally put that phone down! From finger painting to building with recycled materials, crafts help kids of all ages express themselves while developing important skills. Tailoring craft activities to match your child’s age and interests makes them even more beneficial—and way more fun! 

Craft Ideas by Age Group 

Age-appropriate crafts help kids build creativity, fine motor skills, and problem-solving abilities while staying fully engaged in the moment. Let’s get into some fun craft ideas based on age!  

Crafts for Preschoolers 

For little ones, crafting should be hands-on, colorful, and simple. Think easy-to-follow instructions and projects that allow for lots of creativity, without tiny, hard-to-handle pieces. 

Simple Paper Crafts 

Paper crafts are perfect for preschoolers! Try these fun and safe ideas: 

• Paper plate masks: Transform a paper plate into an animal or silly face 

• Handprint art: Turn little hands into trees, turkeys, or flowers 

• Cut-and-glue collages: Practice scissor skills with colorful paper scraps 

• Make your own back-to-school pouch covers together! Check out this GoGo squeeZ® craft idea 🙂 

Nature-Based Crafts 

Bring the outdoors in! After a walk in the park, use what you find to create: 

• Leaf rubbings with crayons and paper 

• Rock animals painted with silly faces 

• Stick sculptures or mobiles 

Crafts for Elementary School Kids 

Elementary-age kids are ready for more complex crafts that combine learning with creativity. This is a great time to introduce themes like science and design in a fun, hands-on way. 

Science Craft Projects 

Turn your kitchen table into a mini science lab with projects like: 

• Baking soda volcanoes 

• DIY slime (bonus: it’s a sensory experience too!) 

• Simple circuit kits for lighting up a mini robot or card 

Art and Design Crafts 

Let their creativity shine with expressive, open-ended art projects: 

• Watercolor painting using nature for inspiration 

• Clay modeling to make animals or mini dishes 

• DIY jewelry like friendship bracelets 

Crafts for Tweens and Teens 

Older kids can take on bigger challenges and explore crafts that reflect their growing independence and interests. Plus, anything to get them off their phones and into the real world! 

Technology-Integrated Crafts 

Tech-savvy teens can combine their love of gadgets with creativity: 

• Digital art and design using free drawing apps 

• 3D pen sculptures 

• Stop-motion videos made with a phone and favorite toys 

Crafting with Textiles 

Sewing, dyeing, and knitting are great for relaxation and creativity.  

• Simple sewing projects like tote bags or pillows 

• Tie-dye t-shirts 

• Knitting or crocheting small items like scarves or coasters 

• Lanyard projects to make keychains or charms from 
   

Seasonal Educational Crafts 

Tying crafts to seasons, holidays, or nature makes them extra meaningful—and keeps ideas flowing year-round! 

Crafts for Holidays 

Celebrate together with: 

• DIY holiday cards for friends and family 

• Seasonal garlands made from nature sourced materials backyard or a hiking trail near you  

• Decorations like ornaments or wreaths, and use this time to talk about the history and meaning of each holiday—and build your own family traditions 

Nature and Science Crafts 

Try fun nature-themed activities like: 

• Plant pressing to make bookmarks 

• Rock painting with inspiring words or fun characters 

• Weather journals for observing seasonal changes 

Encouraging Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Crafting 

Crafting can be green, too! Choose materials that are natural, recycled, or reusable to make your fun more sustainable. 

Using Recycled Materials 

Think twice before tossing that box or jar—it might be your next project! 

• Cardboard playhouses or mini theaters 

• Jars as organizers for craft supplies 

• Scrap paper collages or homemade cards 

• Don’t forget those GoGo squeeZ® pouches! Upcycle them into cool crafts like our beaded wind chime!  

Get Fun Ideas for Kids Activities from GoGo squeeZ® 

Looking for even more kid-approved, creativity-boosting ideas? Visit the GoGo squeeZ® Blog for crafts, games, and snackable inspiration that helps your kids play, learn, and grow—the fun way!