As the vibrant colors of fall begin to emerge and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the changing season with your children. Autumn offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with the outdoors and create lasting memories through simple and meaningful activities. A wonderful way to celebrate the season is through crafts that are inspired by nature using readily-available, natural materials. These activities not only ignite creativity but also inspire children to connect with and appreciate their surroundings.
FIVE fun and easy crafts you can make with your kids using natural materials like leaves, pinecones, and acorns:
1. Create Art With Leaves
Leaves are abundant in the fall, and their vibrant colors make them perfect for creating beautiful art. Gather an assortment of leaves in various shapes and colors, twigs, flowers, berries and use them to make stunning leaf rubbings, collages, or even leaf prints. This craft allows children to experiment with textures and colors while creating their own masterpiece.
LEAF INSPIRED CREATIONS from www.realredridinghoods.com
2. DIY Leaf Bowl
Bring the outdoors inside with a charming DIY leaf bowl. This craft involves using real leaves to create a decorative bowl that’s perfect for holding small trinkets or simply adding a touch of autumn to your home. It’s a wonderful way for kids to learn about textures and shapes while crafting something functional and beautiful.
CREATE A LEAF BOWL from www.madewithhappy.com
3. Leaf Suncatchers
Capture the beauty of autumn with colorful suncatchers. This craft is inspired by autumn leaves and encourages young artists to mimic the beauty of nature with this indoor project. You’ll need: tissue paper, contact paper, and some leaves for inspiration!
LEAF SUNCATCHERS from www.thebestideasforkids.com
4. Pinecone Hedgehogs
Turn ordinary pinecones into adorable hedgehogs! This cute and easy craft is a favorite with kids of all ages. By adding a few simple touches, like googly eyes and felt, you can transform a pinecone into a playful little hedgehog that will bring a smile to anyone’s face.
PINECONE HEDGEHOGS from www.muminthemadhouse.com
5. Painted Acorn Necklaces
Acorns are another abundant natural material in the fall, and they can be easily turned into beautiful, wearable art. Painted acorn necklaces are a fun way for kids to express their creativity and make something they can wear or give as a gift. This craft is simple, colorful, and a great way to incorporate nature into your everyday life.
PAINTED ACORNS from www.homelifeandfamily.com
Slow Down and Savor the Season
Fall is a time of transition, a gentle reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures that nature provides. By taking the time to engage in these nature-inspired crafts with your children, you’re not only fostering their creativity but also instilling in them a deep appreciation for the world around them. So, as the leaves change and the days grow shorter, make the most of this season by spending quality time together, exploring the outdoors, and creating something beautiful from the treasures you find along the way.
