Looking for fun kids craft ideas but worried about the mess, the stress, or the meltdown when the glue goes missing?
We get it. At Ash & Co Workshops, we’ve welcomed over 1000 mini makers through our doors (!) – and we’ve learned a thing or two along the way. Crafting with children doesn’t have to be chaotic! With the right mindset (and a little prep), it can be one of the most joyful ways to connect, create, and make memories together.
Here are our top five tried-and-tested tips to help make your next craft session calm, fun and full of smiles:
1. Be prepared
We’ve learned the hard way – pausing to find scissors or glue mid-craft can disrupt your flow! Laying everything out first really helps everyone stay calm and keeps the creativity going.
Take five minutes beforehand to lay out everything you’ll need – scissors, glue, pens, paint, wet wipes, aprons – so you’re not scrambling mid-project. Having a tray or box of go-to craft supplies makes it even easier to get stuck in when inspiration strikes.
2. The right project for the right child
We’ve found that kids really shine when crafting something suited to their age and interests. Younger ones adore simpler crafts like making a character or car, while older kids feel super-proud mastering skills like hammering nails or creating a detailed wooden model. Matching the craft to your child makes all the difference to how much they enjoy it.
At Ash & Co, our younger makers love creative freedom and silly characters, and the older ones beam with pride after learning a new skill. Think about their attention span and confidence – if it feels manageable and fun, they’ll get way more out of it.
3. Embrace the Mess
Trust us – crafting can get messy! But that’s what lots of kids love about it! Old clothes, washable tablecloths and not stressing about a bit of paint on fingers (or noses!) makes the experience more fun for everyone.
4. Join in – but don’t take over!
In our workshops, we’ve noticed kids love it when grown-ups pay attention to what they are making. Crafting side-by-side makes the whole thing feel special and kids get a lovely confidence boost when adults enjoy the experience alongside them. However, it’s also important to let the child lead. Resist the temptation to 'correct' or perfect their project! Letting them experiment and take charge means they’ll really own their creation and feel genuinely proud of their ideas.
5. Show It Off
When the craft is finished, don’t just pop it in a drawer – put it on the fridge, the mantelpiece, or the windowsill. Seeing their work proudly on display makes kids feel amazing. It sends a clear message: What you made is brilliant, and we’re proud of you. You might even find it sparks the next burst of inspiration.
