Arts and crafts can be adapted for both toddlers and kids. For toddlers, scale down the options for the arts and crafts. Picking a craft and introducing it one at a time is best. Ensure there are no small items, such as buttons, or other things that could be risky for young toddlers involved in the craft. Paper and paint or drawing with crayons is a toddler-friendly arts and crafts activity. Working with putty is another. Younger kids may also enjoy these activities. For older kids, organize more advanced crafts, such as building their own gingerbread house, making their own scrapbook pages or making a mural that tells a story. Build your own arts and craft supply selection for all ages by purchasing an assortment of paints, crayons, pastels and brushes, as well as paper of all shapes and sizes.
Bake your favorite brownie mix in a large pizza pan. Ensure the pan is well greased so you don't burn the bottom. Slice up fruit and place in plastic dishes. Place marshmallows, chocolate chips and cookie bits in additional glass bowls. Let toddlers and kids place their favorite items on the raw cookie dough in the cold pizza pan. Toddlers and kids of all ages will love placing their favorite treats on their dessert pizza. Let adult supervisors manage the cooking process once the pizza needs to go in the oven; let chill when finished. Slice brownie pizza for toddlers and kids when it has cooled.
Libraries often provide free children's programming that is marketed specifically to kids and toddlers. Check with your local library for information about children's programming. Common activities including story time or arts and crafts lessons, including making their own books, with authors and librarians in the area. This is an activity that may encourage a love of reading in young children.
Music is a creative outlet for kids and toddlers. Purchasing or downloading some children's music and encouraging kids and toddlers to sing along is an activity suitable for all seasons and safe for all ages. Add kid-friendly refreshments to your sing-along, such as cheese cubes and crackers, and provide plenty of water. Encourage reading among older kids by providing lyrics for them to sing along.