August '25
School life can be a lot for kids, early mornings, long hours, homework, and trying to fit in socially. After all that, it’s no surprise they come home feeling tired or stressed. As parents, we all want to help our children feel calm and happy again.
One simple and effective way? Art activities.
Art helps kids express their feelings, relax their minds, and have fun, all at the same time. Whether you’re planning some creative time during the weekend or looking for after school activities, here are five easy and fun ideas you can try at home.
1. Watercolor Blow Painting
This activity turns a blob of paint into a colorful masterpiece, just by using their breath! Kids love watching paint swirl and splatter into unexpected shapes. It’s creative, calming, and full of laughter.
What you need:
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Watercolors or watered-down paint
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A straw
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Paper
What to do:
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Squeeze or brush small amounts of paint onto the sheet.
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Let your child blow through a straw to spread the paint around.
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See what images the shapes inspire and let them add details.
This fun art activity is a great stress-reliever and encourages free expression.
2. Salt Painting Magic
Combining art and a touch of science, this activity feels magical and engaging. Watching watercolors dance across salty lines keeps kids focused and calm while letting their imagination run wild.
What you need:
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Glue
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Table salt
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Watercolors and a paintbrush
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Black or dark paper
What to do:
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Help your child draw with glue on the paper.
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Add a layer of salt over the glue, then tip the paper to let the extra fall off.
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Lightly touch watercolor with salt and watch it spread beautifully.
An eye-catching after school activity that’s both relaxing and magical.
3. Calm Jar Craft
This is more than an art project; it’s a calming tool your child can use anytime. Watching glitter slowly settle inside a jar helps soothe anxiety and encourages deep breaths.
What you need:
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A small jar or bottle
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Warm water
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Glitter glue or clear glue
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Loose glitter and food coloring
What to do:
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Mix warm water, glue, glitter, and a drop of food color in the jar.
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Seal the lid tightly.
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Shake it up and let your child watch the glitter swirl and settle.
A wonderful mix of craft and mindfulness, perfect for emotional regulation and extracurricular activities at home.
4. Mood Doodle Journal
Sometimes, it’s hard for kids to say how they feel. A mood journal gives them a quiet, creative way to express emotions using colors, doodles, or silly sketches—no pressure or rules.
What you need:
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A sketchbook or notebook
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Markers, pens, or crayons
What to do:
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Let your child doodle how they’re feeling at the end of each day.
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Encourage them to use colors, shapes, or simple drawings.
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They can add words or short captions if they want to.
A gentle daily art activity that helps children reflect and unwind.
5. DIY Art Puzzle
This creative craft turns into a fun game! Kids love creating something and then cutting it up to make their very own puzzle. It’s calming, confidence-boosting, and can be done solo or together.
What you need:
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Thick paper or cardboard
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Paints, markers, or stickers
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Scissors
What to do:
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Have your child draw or paint a picture on cardboard.
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Once dry, cut it into puzzle pieces.
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Mix them up and let your child solve their own art puzzle.
A hands-on after school activity that combines art, focus, and fun.
Final Note for Parents
School can be stressful, but with a few simple art activities, your child can relax, reflect, and recharge at home. These creative projects not only reduce stress but also build confidence and emotional strength.
If you’re looking for more enriching after school activities or creative extra-curricular activities, explore Wondrfly resources. From art and dance to music and sports, Wondrfly offers a wide range of programs to support your child’s growth, joy, and well-being.
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