Magazining

Need a few minutes to yourself this week for wrapping or baking? Here is one project my preschool age kids always love.

I keep a few old magazines on hand for the kids to craft with. We have a swap table at the local library where we sometimes pick up some cool ones like National Geographic, but otherwise we use whatever is on hand. Magazining is good busywork for 2 to 6 year olds. They will occasionally sit at the table for an hour or more cutting pictures. It is good practice for little hands, and it keeps them occupied if you have something you NEED to get done. A little paper and glue for making collages makes it all the more exciting (and buys mom a few extra minutes). Some kids need more direction than others, so you can help your child pick a theme if you like. For example, "Lets make a bouquet. Cut out all the flowers you can find." Or "Lets make some faces. Cut out some eyes, noses, and mouths. Then we will put them together again and make a new face." Older kids like to find the letters from their name or other favorite things.

You may be worried about the clean-up, but don't fret! Kids can clean up their own craft messes. Just as long as you don't give them glitter. Teach your 2-year old to sweep. Get a little whisk broom and dustpan. They LOVE it. Of course they may not get everything, but it is so worth it to let them try. It may take you an extra 2 minutes, but soon they will be doing it entirely on their own!! Well worth your small effort now.

So keep some of those old magazines on hand. If you don't get any magazines, you may be able to get old donated ones from a library location near you.

Do you have any other great ideas for using old magazines? Share them below!