Even if you have never hammered a nail or sewn a stitch, there are still some fun DIY projects that moms can build that your kids are going to love! From a project that you can put together in minutes to one that may be a good weekend project, we have you covered, no matter what your skill level. These budget-friendly projects are sure to earn you the moniker of “Cool Mom.”
The Versatile Pop N’ Go®
Maybe one of the easiest ways to treat your kids to a great new DIY project is by using your Pop N’ Go® Playpen. Toddlers, especially, love this because it feels more like their little private hideaway than a playpen. And the ways to customize your Pop ‘N Go® are endless.
- Set your Pop N’Go® up anywhere and fill it with plastic balls for the ultimate ball pit. Your kids will have a great, giggly time, and there is plenty of room for their play dates to join in.
- Turn your Pop N’ Go® into a grocery store, kitchen, or fort by adding a few of your child’s favorite toys. It not only corrals the toys, but it also gives your child the feeling of real space for their activities. And you can change it up to suit whatever theme you want.
- Bring in some dolls and a tea set, and your tea party is ready to go in minutes. A few pillows to sit on, and some special treats will get you started.
- Backyard camping (even if you don’t stay out all night)is great fun when you set up the Pop N’ Go® in the backyard. Some camping toys, like flashlights or toy lanterns, are great, and you can even make ahead some s’mores for snacking.
Build a Tent or Teepee
Even if you cannot sew or don’t own a screwdriver, you can make a no-sew teepee out of things that you may have around your house. You may have to purchase some wood for the project if you decide to go the teepee route. Here are some simple instructions from the Hand Made Home.
An even easier DIY project for kids is a tent that can be set up indoors or out. All you need for this is a flat bed sheet or lightweight blanket and a section of rope longer than the length of the blanket. Simply tie the rope to two objects to support the sheet and drape the sheet over. This could be a couple of chairs or two trees, or whatever you have available. You will need to weigh the bottom of the sheet down, so it stays put. The kids can take a sleeping bag, blankets, or whatever toys they want to make this a great little hideaway.
Build a Birdhouse
Building a birdhouse may take a few tools, but it is a great DIY project that you can build, and your child can help you with it. Many home improvement stores offer birdhouse kits for free, or you can purchase a kit from a hobby or craft store. If you cannot find a kit, you can download plans online for free and use scrap lumber or purchase the materials listed on the plans. You will need screws and glue to put pre-cut pieces together, and a saw if you are cutting your own. Your child will love helping you paint the birdhouse. They can be creative with colors and design. Even if you opt for a kit, you can customize your birdhouse with:
- Special graphics. You or your child can paint flowers or other designs to make the birdhouse one of a kind. Not artistic? Try an easy-to-use stencil.
- Add a special roof or gable. If you have an old license plate or some scraps of shingle or other material, add it to the roof. It will protect the wood and give it a personalized look at the same time. A scrap of wood could be used to make a steeple or gable so that your birdhouse stands out.
- Instead of a back wall, install plexiglass so that your child can observe the birds in the nest. You will have to mount it in a location that they can view without disturbing, such as outside a window.
Build a Cornhole Board
If you have the skills, a cornhole board is great, not just for the kids, but for the whole family as well. You do not have to be a skilled craftsman to be able to build this board, but you should have basic skills and tools to complete it. We found easy instructions from the Family Handyman on how to build a cornhole board at a beginner level. Your child will love it if you paint the board with their favorite sports team or superhero on it.
To make the cornhole bags, use a strong cotton duck material in two colors. You can either fill with resin pellets or corn. Use a heavyweight polyester thread or any durable thread of your choice. Cut your fabric into 14 x 27″ pieces. You will need eight pieces, four of each color. Fold each fabric in half and stitch the two sides shut from the long sides. Use a 1/2″seam allowance, but it is a good idea to stitch the second row of stitching so that there is less chance of it ripping out. Sew the final open side, leaving a small opening near the center for filling. Use 2 1/4 cups of the pellets or corn and sew the opening shut. (Using corn, you will not be able to get the bags wet) The finished bag should measure 6″ square.
Build a Garden
Even if you live in an apartment, there are opportunities to create a gardening area for you and your children. Kids love to watch things grow, and it is a great learning experience as well. You can customize your space to your child’s age, their likes and dislikes, and the space that is available. And there are many ideas to keep your child interested:
- If you have adequate space, consider building a raised bed in an area of your yard. This can be any size, but the recommended height is 10-12″ inches. If you use boards that are one foot wide, it is the perfect height. Simply fasten at the corners and fill with soil and plant. A great outdoor DIY project for the whole family!
- Gardening is a great way for your kids to try and eat new vegetables. Choose plants that are easy to grow for your area and let them learn how they grow and how they taste.
- Short on space? How about making a terrarium? All you need is a glass container, gravel for drainage, potting soil, and dwarf houseplants. Terrariums are great for children since they are easy to care for and practically grow on their own.
- Consider a fairy garden. Hobby and big box stores alike carry a wide selection of accessories, plus you can use items and plants that are native to your area. Use unconventional items for your fairy gardens, such as an old birdbath, an unused flowerpot, or a stump from the yard. Your child will enjoy changing things up seasonally.
Whatever your kid’s age, regardless of your skillset, no matter where you live, there are DIY projects for kids that any mom can build! Start with the basics, such as the Pop ‘N Go® Playpen, the most portable, compact, lightweight, and durable playpen ever created by parents…for parents, just like you. Get started today with the California Beach Company’s Pop ‘N Go® today!
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