By exposing children to art supplies, they have the opportunity to explore, create, and imagine. Toddlers to pre-teens can appreciate a craft box as a gift. Art supply boxes require these basics.
Construction Paper
Construction paper should be the work horse of every craft box. Encourage children to use paper in ways other than just a canvas on which to color. When construction paper is cut, folded into shapes, or torn into pieces to make a collage, children develop their fine motor muscles. Children can build their literacy skills by turning sheets of paper into their own book or writing journal. Encourage them to use construction paper in new and creative ways.
Markers
In recent years, the selection of markers available to purchase has expanded from your choice of fat or thin markers available in the common Crayola rainbow of 8 colors. Children's markers now come in variety of hues -- from pastels to fluorescents, markers that stamp, and markers that only color on special paper. The best advice on selecting markers for kids is to choose washable markers with an easy to use cap. Even better is a cap that will fit on the end of the marker while children color. This prevents the pesky cap from doing a disappearing act. Crayola and Rose Art are two such popular brands.
Scissors
Scissors are an item that falls under the motto "You get what you pay for." Steer clear of cheap scissors made entirely of plastic. These will not cut well and often the plastic hinge keeps the scissors together about as well as dry-rotted elastic will hold up a pair of pants. Look for scissors with a blade either made entirely of metal or metal attached to a plastic base. Scissors are designed according to age. They may feature a blunt tip or wide or narrow finger holes. Be sure to pick up a pair that is age-appropriate.
Glue Sticks
Glue sticks are an inexpensive addition to any craft box. Fatter glue sticks may be more appropriate for younger children to grab onto and to use. Thin glue sticks may be better for older children who can be more precise in how they dispense glue. Glue sticks can also come in various colors even though it all dries clear.
Other Craft Items
Other small items that complement the basic stock of a craft box include stickers, pom-poms, empty cereal boxes, craft sticks, pipe cleaners, paper punches, and stamps. Pick and choose a few of these items to toss into the art supplies box.
There is a simplicity in craft supplies that will enhance children's imagination and creativity better than many electronic, animated toys. A box of art supplies makes for an educational and inexpensive gift that will keep children entertained for hours to come.
Related Reading:
Waldorf Toys and Learning Theory: How Natural Play Things Build Creativity and Imagination
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