Moving to a new home is a big job, and when you have kids, it can feel even more overwhelming. You have to deal with the logistics of packing, and you also need to think about how to keep your little ones entertained and safe during the chaos. One way to do this is by setting up art stations for your kids while you’re unpacking. These creative spaces can help them stay engaged and express themselves while you tackle the many tasks at hand. A great way to make this easier is by having a ready supply of art supplies for kids on the move, ensuring they have everything they need to stay busy and creative.
Top 8 Tips for Setting Up Quick Art Stations for Your Kids While Unpacking
Creating a temporary art station doesn’t have to be a huge task. It can be quick, simple, and effective, offering both you and your children a break from the stress of moving. Explore how to quickly set up an art station and keep your kids entertained, giving you the space to focus on unpacking.
Get the Kids Involved in Unpacking
Giving kids a sense of purpose through small things to do can help keep them occupied and contribute to the process. Tasks like labeling boxes, organizing their room, or even sorting small items can be an engaging way to include them.
Of course, you’ll need to keep it light and easy for them, but getting their help, even in small ways, can make unpacking more efficient and keep the day flowing smoothly. You might also be able to use some of their completed art as labels or decorations for boxes or rooms, making it even more fun.
Select a Safe and Easy-to-Clean Area
When setting up art stations for your kids, you first want to choose a space that’s easy to clean and safe for them to use. If possible, pick a spot in your new home where the mess won’t bother you too much — like a corner of the kitchen, a laundry room, or an area with tile flooring. Avoid places with expensive or delicate furniture, where you may worry about spills or damage. The key is to create a fun and safe environment that allows your kids to express their creativity without concern for mess or safety.
A plastic tablecloth or a large sheet of butcher paper can help protect surfaces and give your kids a designated space for their art. If you don’t have a table, simply place some paper or cardboard on the floor to create an art area.
Gather Basic Art Supplies
While you’re in the middle of unpacking, you might not have access to all of your kids' usual art supplies, and that’s okay! Start with the basics, and use what you can easily find.
Crayons or markers: These are easy to grab and use, plus they don't require too much clean-up.
Paper: Blank sheets or coloring books are perfect for drawing or doodling.
Stickers and stamps: If you can find any leftover packing materials or other unpacked items, these can add extra fun.
Non-toxic glue: Great for creating collages from scrap papers or cardboard boxes.
If you're missing supplies, consider using things you already have around — like old magazines, empty food boxes, or fabric scraps — for a DIY art session. Kids love using unusual materials for their crafts, and it can keep them busy for hours!
Set Up a Small, Easy-to-Reach Station
Once you have a designated space and basic supplies, make sure that the art station is easy for your kids to access. If they are old enough to do simple crafts on their own, let them be independent and set up a station that allows them to grab materials and work without needing too much help.
If you have younger children who need supervision, try using a child-sized table and chair. Place all supplies in containers or baskets that are labeled for easy access. This will help keep things organized and teach your children where to find and return supplies when they’re done.
Create Short, Simple Art Projects
While you’re busy with the move, it’s a good idea to set up art projects that are quick and easy to finish. This will give your kids something to focus on without requiring too much of your attention. For example:
Drawing games: You can prompt them to draw something simple, like their favorite animal or family members. This gives them a sense of accomplishment once they finish.
Coloring pages: Print out some fun coloring sheets ahead of time and let them color in their favorite characters or objects.
Paper crafts: Easy crafts like folding paper planes or cutting out shapes are simple, fun, and great for fine motor skills.
Create a Rotating Art Schedule
To keep things fresh, consider creating a rotating schedule for art activities. For example, one day, they might do a drawing activity; the next, they could try a craft or collage. This will keep your kids interested and prevent them from getting bored. Plus, having a plan will save you time thinking about what to do next while unpacking.
If you can, include your kids in choosing their art activities. It will allow them to pick what they want to do each day. This gives them some autonomy and can make them more excited about using the art station.
Embrace Messes
Moving often involves a fair amount of mess, and so does art! While you don’t want chaos all over your new house, it's important to let your kids have some freedom to be creative. If they end up with paint on their hands or crayons everywhere, that’s okay. If possible, give them washable supplies, and don’t worry too much about a few stains.
Keeping the space contained, like using a plastic drop cloth, can help. It’s also important to allow your kids to feel comfortable making a mess. After all, creating art is about self-expression, and some messes are part of the fun!
Keep It Fun and Flexible
Lastly, make sure the art stations for your kids are fun, flexible, and adaptable to their interests. If they want to switch from drawing to playing with clay, let them! The goal is to keep them engaged while you focus on unpacking.
Don’t forget that you’re in the middle of a move, so it’s important to keep things low-pressure. Some days, the art station might only hold their attention for a few minutes, and that’s fine. On other days, they might spend hours getting lost in their creations. Flexibility is key! Also, consider looking into local art classes in a new neighborhood to give your kids even more opportunities for creativity once the move is complete.
Final Words
Setting up art stations for your kids while unpacking is a great way to keep them busy, engaged, and creative while you focus on settling into your new home. With just a few basic supplies, a little planning, and a designated space, you can create a fun and easy environment for your kids to enjoy. It will entertain them and will also allow you to unpack more efficiently, making the process feel less stressful. Embrace the mess, and make it fun.
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