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7 Summer Kids Crafts

April 15, 2017 by Shellie Wilson

It’s getting hotter as the race to lazy days in the sun is on. But what to make? Good, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve done a round-up of the best kids crafts during summer.

1. DIY Slip and Slide

Sure, you can buy a fancy one from the store for $30, but what’s the fun in that? Make your own slip and slide on a summer afternoon and get the whole family involved. Get the tutorial here, at wired.com.

 

2. Tie Dye a T-Shirt

Well, by the end of the summer, you’ll have tie dyed everything – pillowcases, t-shirts, socks, tights, curtains, you name it. You’re probably thinking, “Quick! Move on! No more mess!” But this fun craft is easy to clean up when you’re outside. Show off all your new clothing with a DIY touch! Grab the tutorial here, at parents.com.

 

3. Tricycle Car Wash

I can’t believe how simple and cute this fun project is! Sponge away the blues on a hot summer day with a tricycle car wash, using splash and splosh fun. What’s a better way to get the whole family together? Grab the tutorial here, at designmom.com.

4. Splat Painting

We’ve done heaps of fun painting over at Craftbits.com, but this one has got to be squeezed onto the summer list. Grab an old pantyhose and get splatting! With this fun (and slightly messy) activity, you’re sure to have splat-work all over your house. Toddler Approved has the splatting down pat, right here!

5. DIY Water Blob

“What is a water blob?” I hear you ask. Well, a water blob is the most fun water activity that you can enjoy wet or dry. Great to keep kids of all ages entertained for hours, the water blob is a simple piece of plastic sheeting folded in half with water inside. Glue it up – and you have a party-perfect water toy. Grab the simple (really) tutorial here at clumsycrafter.com.

6. Scary Shark Container

Proving their point, makefuncreating.com says that Fimo is not just for making key rings and jewelry. I know this amazing shark is not water play, but it is still ocean themed! This scary predator can sit by the poolside waiting for the perfect fish. Perfect for holding everything, this FIMO shark is sure to get your friends wow-ing. Grab the tutorial here, at makefuncreating.com.

7. Coke and Mentos Explosion

KA-POW! This fun experiment is certainly not craft, but it’s a Do-It-Yourself science experiment perfect for summer, so I thought I’d better put it in anyway! Once all the kids are well away, slide in the Mentos for a explosive surprise! (Just make sure it’s outside!) Head on over to frugalfamily.co.uk and get exploding!

 

Well, that’s the end! Enjoy making these fun summer crafts and make sure you sign up to Craftbits  and Craftgossip’s  newsletter for more excitement!

 

By Arabella

(Shellie’s 9 year old daughter)

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Have you read?

How to Make DIY Shower Jellies – Lush-Inspired, Kid-Friendly and Naturally Scented

If your morning shower feels more like a chore than a treat, it’s time to shake things up—literally. These DIY shower jellies are bouncy, fun, and scented with natural essential oils that turn your bath or shower into a playful spa moment. Inspired by Lush but made at home for a fraction of the cost, they’re perfect for kids, tweens, or anyone who wants a little joy added to their self-care routine.

Best part? You can tailor the scent, color, and shape to match your mood, season, or even holiday gifts. I’ve made everything from zesty lemon sunbursts in summer to calming lavender moons for bedtime wind-downs. My teens love them, and even Aloo (our cheeky pup) tries to sneak a sniff.

What Are Shower Jellies?

Shower jellies are squishy, soap-based gels that clean like body wash but jiggle like jelly. They melt on skin contact, lather up beautifully, and add a bit of tactile joy to your daily scrub. Think wobbly soap that feels like toy-slash-skincare.

Ingredients (All-Natural Option)

  • 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin (or 1 tbsp agar agar for vegan version) 
  • 3/4 cup boiling water 
  • 1/4 cup liquid castile soap (or SLS-free body wash) 
  • 10–20 drops essential oil (lavender, citrus, eucalyptus – your call) 
  • Optional: skin-safe mica powder or natural food coloring 
  • Optional: dried botanicals (lavender buds, calendula petals) 
  • Silicone molds or ice cube tray 

Instructions

Step 1: Boil & Bloom
In a heatproof bowl, whisk the gelatin into the boiling water until fully dissolved. This is your jelly base—make sure there are no lumps. If using agar agar, simmer for a couple of minutes for full gelling power.

Step 2: Add the Fun Stuff
Once smooth, stir in your liquid soap, essential oils, and any color or botanicals. I love using pink clay for a rosy tint or a few drops of lemon essential oil for a fresh, morning zing.

Step 3: Mold It
Pour your mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray. Let cool at room temp for about 10 minutes, then pop into the fridge for 2–3 hours until set.

Step 4: Pop Out & Store
Once firm, gently remove your shower jellies from the mold. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge if your bathroom is steamy, or a lidded jar by the shower in cooler months.

How to Use Shower Jellies

Simply grab one in the shower, squish it between your hands or rub directly on your skin to lather up. They glide easily and rinse clean, leaving your skin soft and lightly scented. For extra cooling, keep them chilled and use post-sun or after a workout.

Tips & Variations

  • Sleepytime Blend: Lavender + chamomile essential oil 
  • Energy Boost: Orange + peppermint (keep away from eyes!) 
  • Holiday Jellies: Add glitter (biodegradable) and candy cane scent for stocking stuffers 
  • Kid-Safe: Use unscented baby body wash and natural fruit coloring

These DIY shower jellies are pure joy in a jar. Whether you’re making them for your little ones, holiday gifting, or your own self-care stash, they add a bouncy boost to your bath time. Bonus: They’re easy to make in big batches, so get ready for a fridge full of jiggly, wiggly goodness.

 

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