There are more activities to do in life than one can count, so children need never be bored. Those who complain of nothing to do likely watch too much TV and live with grown ups that have forgotten how fun it is to explore creative endeavors. Perhaps they experienced "hovering" caregivers who robbed the joy from such activities by too much criticism. It is never too late to rekindle a creative spirit. All that is required is an attitude of willingness to "play" without thinking about the end product. Just enjoy the process. The attitude of the scientist is one that serves well. Explore and experiment! There's no right and wrong in art. Put the music on and allow your mind to rest for a while. Below you will find some simple fun activities if you don't know where to begin. I've seen all ages enjoy these activities again and again. The goal will be "shared enjoyment" for the family. Have fun!

BOTTLE PUPPETS and SOCK PUPPETS Terrific because you use FREE recycled plastic bottles and old clothes. Collect different shaped bottles. Interesting fabric from shirts, pants etc. Make sure you have glue and some yarn and start creating. All ages enjoy this activity.

SHEET and PVC PUPPET THEATRE

Terrific because you use the children's original art to decorate the sheet. Your theatre is light weight so a child can move it around. There are unlimited variations. Great for a child's room, a patio, the yard, rainy days, or a party. Make sure the PVC bottom is braced well. Notice the bottom stand in picture (top) showing the full puppet theatre. Glue or tape the PVC joints securely. Then put on a puppet show. Tip: Cut the hole shapes before the children paint or draw on the sheet.

SPAGHETTI PAINTING Terrific outdoors in the warm weather. You'll need cooked spaghetti. Tempera paint in different colors, paper plates and art paper. It is messy so do it outdoors where clean up is easy after lots of giggly fun.   FINGER PAINT WITH SHAVING CREAM and MEAT TRAY SHAPE MOBILES

CIRCUS CLOWN FUN Terrific because everybody loves this.young or old, participants or observers. Spongy balls with a slit cut into them. Paper or felt "ties" which the children decorate with felt pens. (felt works the best) Make your own circus clown act and laugh, laugh, laugh! Did you know laughter can help make you well when you are sick?

PAINT WITH YOUR FEET Terrific because it is different. I have used the bathtub or the kitchen floor on a rainy day.But if clean up is an issue.do this in the garage, patio or yard. What you need: Bare feet, shallow pans of at least two colors of tempera paint and art paper. It is fun to use butcher paper or shelf paper and create your own wrapping paper!