• After that beach trip, use the shells the kids collected to create a mobile. Have them find a stick outside, then use colorful string or yarn to tie shells together and to the branch. Use string to create a hanger, and enjoy the soft tinkling sound it makes! 

• Mix up your own Play-Doh. Mix up 1 cup flour, 1 cup warm water, 2 teaspoons cream of tartar, 1 tablespoon oil, 1/2 cup salt and a few drops of food coloring. Stir in a saucepan over medium heat until a ball forms. Allow it to cool and store in an airtight container. 

• Fun comes in all shapes and sizes. Why not take up origami? There are plenty of books and online resources available to teach kids about this ancient art. They can use whatever paper they like to create little origami shapes and animals. 

Aside from collecting ideas, you also can collect materials. They can be separated in a few different bins according to craft type.