How Can You Develop Stronger Relationships With Your Kids Through Crafts?

Marie, today's guest post author, is a mother of 3 and the founder of Make and Takes, a place for ideas and crafty tidbits for home, family, and fun. She is the channel editor of Blissful Kids at Blissfully Domestic and also can be seen on Alpha Mom - Holidays.

Even though we're busy with our kids all day, sometimes we miss the opportunities to just 'be' with them, developing the relationship. With work, school, play dates, meals, and bed times, we can sometimes over look the need to strengthen our relationships with our kids. Crafting can be a great way for you to develop your relationship with your child in a fun and encouraging way.

Here's 3 ways to develop your relationship with your kids through crafts!

1. One-on-One Attention - Kids love attention and they need it from loved ones. Doing crafts or projects together with your kids can let them know you care. Even if you're just sitting in a chair next to them while they construct a tower or a flower, they love to know you're there.
2. Problem Solve Together - If your toddler is ready to use scissors, your 1st grader trying to read instructions, or your teenager is beading a bracelet, you can use this time with your child to see how they work. While crafting or completing a project, we can see what skills they're using and what skills they can better develop.
3. Just Talk - Creating a friendly and fun environment can lead to open communication with your child. If you're sitting side by side together working on a project, ask them about their day, about school, about friends, and just talk. See what's on their minds, what's bothering them, what their needs are. This can be a great way to get to know them better, finding out more of their interests.

Check out these fun features from Marie's Crafts and Activities to help you develop your relationships with kids:

• Lacing Spider Webs
• Coloring Coffee Filter Snowflakes
• Decorating Recycled Jars
• Slithering Snakes