365 Things to Make And Do

365 Things to Make and Do

Written By: Vivienne Bolton
Recommended Ages: 6 and up

Here's a book that just might be the answer to those plaintive cries of "I'm bored" that inevitably creep up in the summer. It's filled with enough projects that you should be able to find something for everyone in your family.

365 Things to Make and Do is divided into eight sections: Nature, In the Kitchen, Indoor Crafts, Cards and Wrappings, At the Seaside, Toys & Games, Models & Boxes, and Special Occasions. Each project is on a double page spread, and there are color photos of the kids and supplies needed, as well as step-by-step instructions. There's also a "Tips and Warnings" box for kids (and parents) to read prior to beginning each project.

Some of the more intriguing projects include: Bird Feeders made out of recycled milk cartons, twig furniture, glass painting, lots of different card projects, bottlecap snakes, banks made out of recycled containers and juggling balls.

There are a few reasons I think this book would be a welcome addition in any home. First of all, they have some clever ideas for projects that will entice even the most reluctant kid to the project table. Secondly, I think that these ideas will spur on other ideas and kids will use their own creative imaginations to move forward. I also like that many of the projects are using recycled materials found around the house. And finally, it's good practice to learn how to read and follow directions from a book. For those kids that are capable of reading the book completely on their own, they can learn how to follow written instructions. It's an essential lifetime skill if one plans on say following a recipe from a cookbook or assembling a piece of Ikea furniture.

So if you want a book to combat those summer doldrums, consider checking out 365 Things To Make and Do. It might be the answer to your sanity!