PRACTICE USING TOOLS
Before you start on a project, get kids comfortable with tools. Have them practice using a tape measure or hammering nails and tightening screws in scrap pieces of wood to gain confidence. Be sure to have them wear safety gear! The when you decide to start a project, make sure it’s age appropriate.
CONSTRUCT A KID-SIZE WORKBENCH
If your child has taken a special interest in DIY, help them build their own workbench that they can use to create many more projects in the future. It’s an inexpensive project that will take about one day to complete.
INDOOR HOPSCOTCH
This indoor hopscotch mat is the perfect project to do with your child on a stay-indoors day. All that’s needed is duct tape, stencils and an inexpensive carpet runner.
START SEEDS
Gardening can be both rewarding and educational for children. One simple and inexpensive way to teach them about gardening is to start seeds. You can have kids read the planting instructions, plant and then tend to the seeds and seedlings as they grow.
CHANGE A BIKE TIRE
Bikes are an integral part of childhood. Proper bike care is also important for kids to learn.
BUILD A FIRE PIT
Bonfires are a fun way to spend an evening with friends and family. This kind of project is perfect for older kids who can help with shoveling and the placement of stones.
MAKE REPURPOSED PLANTERS
Kids can learn more about sustainability by repurposing items from the home in the garden. Coffee cans, old cabinet drawers and teapots are just some of the items you can use as planters.
TAKE SOMETHING APART
For some, the most fun thing to do before building or repairing is taking apart. Have kids disassemble a fan to clean it, or open up a clock to see how it works.
BUILD A BOOKSHELF
This project is perfect for older kids who are comfortable around power tools. It does require the use of a miter saw, so they will need proper safety gear and supervision.
LITTLE KIDS CAN HELP WITH CERTAIN STEPS
If your child is too young for larger, more complex projects, have them help out with just a few smaller steps. Painting is one the easiest jobs for children to start with.
MAKE A BIRD FEEDER
One of the greatest lessons an adult can provide a child is to teach them about nature. Once you’ve completed this bird feeder project together, have your child take notes on the birds it attracts to your backyard.
BUILD A TREE HOUSE
A special tree house is a magical part of many childhoods. While kids might not be able to participate in every step of the building process, they will definitely have fun helping with the design and hammering nails!
