Guest Author - Kimberly Misra
Got a road trip coming up? Bring along a few portable crafts to entertain kids on the ride. Pack the craft materials in individual bags and you'll be able to whip them out in no time when boredom strikes.Lap trays might be helpful for some of these activities.
Make bookmarks. Cut some long strips of construction paper or cardstock and pack them with stickers, washable markers, a small hole punch, and decorative ribbon. Kids can make bookmarks for themselves, each other, or to give as gifts.
Play-dough. If you can stand a little mess, bring along small containers of play dough. Pack them with a baby wipe so kids can clean up afterwards and include a plastic baggie to keep finished creations from drying out too fast.
Personalized Stationary. Pack alphabet stickers with sheets of plain paper and let the kids make their own stationary. Encourage them to use driving time to write letters to relatives and friends.Bring stamps and envelopes so that when you stop for a break kids will be able to mail their letters.
Easy telescope. Pack a paper towel tube with stickers and markers. Kids can use the finished product to scope out passing scenery.
Make a fan. Cut a sheet of construction paper into a shape, such as a large starfish, and pack with crayons for decorating. Include a craft stick and a roll of tape to give your fan a handle.
Latch hook rug kits. These are fun, portable, and easy to do for kids ages 7 and up. Pack supplies in a tote bag and give them a quick lesson before starting out.
Make jewelry. Pack plastic or wooden beads with colorful nylon cording for creating necklaces or bracelets. For an edible version, use colorful cereal or candy.
Aluminum foil sculptures. Stick a few small sheets of aluminum foil in a bag and encourage kids to twist and bend them into animal shapes or whatever catches their fancy.
Collages. This idea requires more prep work. Cut out interesting pictures from old magazines (travel brochures are great for vacation themes, or customize to your child's interest) and pack them in a bag with a glue stick and sheet of paper or file folder.
Make puppets. Cut people or animal shapes from white cardstock and pack with coloring supplies, craft sticks, and tape for quick and easy puppets. Then encourage kids to put on a show to amuse the family.
