SUMMERTIME ART

Wow, winter went out like a lamb and summer came in like a lion!  We went from a very looooonnngg winter to tropical summer weather.  Though it is hot, the heat doesn't deter us hardy Vermonters from being outside, especially after such a miserable and endless winter, and because we like to spend time outdoors with our families during this short season, I thought this month I would suggest a few art projects to do with your kids, preferably outside, soaking up the sun, and just plain enjoying what nature has to offer.

WTTS now has tie-dye kits in stock. Yes, you can create cool T-shirts, but there are other things you can do with tie-dye.  I came across a website that showed a tie-dye wall made with scraps of fabric.  That got me to thinking... how about dying some fabric and making pillows or cushions to sit on, or even a small tent!  I personally have never seen a tie-dye tent and think it would be totally cool.  It sounds like a lot of work coloring all that fabric, but just use larger pieces of scrap fabric and it will go quicker and the task won't seem so daunting. If you spend time at the beach with your kids, perhaps the kids could dye and customize their own beach towel using an old white bath towel you have lying around.  Really the options are endless.

Of course we have to talk about paint: Finger paint, poster paint, acrylic paint.  If you like to garden, gather a few old pots and have your children stylize their own, maybe they can create their own pot/planter garden.  Decorating rocks can be fun, too. I also came across a website that gave instructions on how to make "swirly rocks." You heat up the rocks in the oven, then take the paper off some crayons and the heat of the rock will melt the crayons and make wonderful designs.  However, if you are afraid of having a child handle such a hot item, you again could just have your boy or girl paint the rock. I remember doing stuff like that when I was growing up.  We even used glue and made turtles and other little animals out of pebbles, rocks, leaves and other things.  Rocks also make great pendants/necklaces. Keep them natural (just find one that "speaks" to you, with the right shape and color), or you can decorate those, too. 

My final suggestion for an outdoor art activity is to create mobiles, window hangings, and chimes out of nature's gifts such as shells, leaves, twigs, seeds, even peach pits.

Whatever project or activity you would like to do this summer with your child, nurture their creativity and curiosity. Explore with them, create with them, have fun with them. 

Have a wonderful summer and remember your sun screen!