A portable craft box can help you enjoy stress-free arts and crafts activities with the kids. Keep supplies organized and ready so setups and cleanups are quick and easy. Check out these tips for creating a go-to craft box that promotes creativity, not chaos.

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Does the thought of crafting with the kids sometimes make you cringe?

Do we have time?  Will it make a mess? Where are the kids scissors?

Maybe the idea of lugging supplies out of a closet or drawer, and making numerous trips back and forth to gather everything together, doesn't appeal to you.

There is a simple way you can optimize set up and clean up while supporting kids creativity.

A craft box is a great way to minimize stress when it comes to crafting with the kids.

• Supplies will be organized, conveniently accessed, and ready at a moment's notice for impromptu art sessions.
• A limited amount of available materials will prevent kids from being overwhelmed with choices. Additional materials may be kept in storage to replenish the craft box as needed.

It's easy to put a craft box together that will support open-ended art activities with preschoolers.

Related: Kids Own Craft Box 

Go-to craft box

Benefit of art experiences

Let's look at why supporting kids art experiences is always a great idea.

• Promotes the growth of developmental skills including fine motor, cognitive, language, creative.
  
  
• Kids learn to take care of materials, to set up and clean up.
  
  
• Kids learn from social interactions doing projects with other children: cooperation; taking turns with supplies; sharing creative ideas. 

The activities you provide do not have to be complex, requiring step-by-step instructions or a detailed list of craft supplies.

Simply having paper and crayons within easy reach is a positive way to promote a creative opportunity.

Here are a few suggestions to jump-start awesome crafting experiences!

How to prepare a go-to craft box

Start with a divided tote or storage box, maybe a tool box or tackle box.

Choose additional small containers that fit inside the tote box.

• The size of the craft box  and the dividers will be determined by the size and quantity of the items you want to provide for everyday art activities.

Fill the craft box with basic supplies such as paper, scissors, crayons, markers, and glue.

Keep supplies to a minimum so both you and the kids are not overwhelmed. Replenish supplies as needed and introduce a variety of new items from time to time.

Rotate items in the craft box according to skill levels and interest, to add a challenge, or just to spark curiosity.

Supplies for a go-to craft box

Here is a list of basic supplies:

• paper
• scissors
• glue sticks
• crayons and markers
• pompoms
• chenille stems
• craft sticks
• stickers
• paper straws
• paper shapes

Supplies such as paint, glitter and play dough can be introduced on days that allow for more time to prepare and clean up, or when you want to provide other hands-on learning opportunities.

Keep a drop cloth and clothing cover-up - such as an oversize t-shirt - in the craft box, or at least nearby, to protect clothing.

Having craft supplies on hand in a go-to craft box allows for spontaneous crafting times, as well as opportunities for hands-on learning at home or in the classroom.

Early learning classrooms often have art supplies available on a shelf or in a cupboard for free play time or independent creative opportunities.

Parents and care givers can offer similar art opportunities with a craft box that makes craft time accessible. 

With the creative use of space and containers, and some basic organization, art prompts are just a craft box away.  

Enjoy your creative time with the kids!

Visit our DIY for home and school  on Pinterest!