Lifehacker shares how to make the simplest DIY candle you can think of, which is also perfect in emergency situations. Simply put a piece of string in a tub of crisco shortening, and it will burn for up to 45 days! So simple and so useful. Check it out at Lifehacker.
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Fun Kite Themed Activities for Kids
It’s been a while since I’ve done a post on kite crafts and activities, so let’s see what’s new in this fun genre that’s perfect for the windy days of spring!
Probably the easiest kite you can make is a paper bag kite, which might not fly all that well but it sure is fun for kids to decorate by drawing, painting, adding stickers, etc. You could have them make their kites while you read books about kites, then take them outside to see if they fly. This tutorial from Typically Simple shows you how to do it.
If you want to get a little more involved in your kite making project, check out this one from About a Mom. It uses the classic diamond kite shape with dowels and paper, so this is one that requires some tools and adult help, but it’s lots of fun to make.
This Popsicle stick kite is for decoration rather than flying, but it’s a fun way to show off a piece of your kid’s artwork (or make a bunch for the classroom letting kids design their own kites). Get the instructions from Made in a Pinch.
Practice some fine motor skills with a kite theme with these printables from 3 Dinosaurs. There are pictures to use dot markers and Q-Tips, ones with dashed lines kids can connect or cut out, and ones that can just be colored. You could also use them as playdough mats.
Speaking of coloring, Your Therapy Source has some printable kite coloring pages, a maze, a kite themed physical activity and instructions for making your own kite.
Living Montessori Now has a nice collection of kite themed printables and Montessori inspired activities. Here you’ll find counting activities, things using the letter k, cutting and gluing activities and more. You can also find some great stuff at Best Toys 4 Toddlers, which has a roundup of kite themed tot school activities. It includes lots of different ways to make kites, as well as letter k activities.