There's nothing like some good arts and crafts to get kids using their imaginations — and keep them entertained for hours. Before you think it's too much of a hassle (the supplies! the mess! the cleanup!), consider these genius ideas straight from Instagram. They're creative, they're fun, and they're low-maintenance; it really doesn't get much better than that.
Making Paper Flowers
Making paper flowers out of tissue looks way more complicated than it actually is. All it takes is a few layers of colored paper and the right folding technique.
Crafting With Clothespins
How fun is this caterpillar made from clothespins? Just think of all the other creations kids can come up with.
Building Toothpick Sculptures
This is one awesome idea, if you ask us. Grab some marshmallows and toothpicks, and let kids create their very own jungle-gym-like sculptures.
Decorating Brown Paper Bags
Getting creative with lunch bags is one of the easiest ways to entertain kids. Plus, it's all about their imagination coming through.
Playing With Pipe Cleaners
You can twist 'em and mold 'em into pretty much any shape you please; having fun with pipe cleaners is like being a balloon artist without the hassle.
Transforming Paper Plates
Moo! Cows are just one of the many creations kids can make out of the paper plates you have lying around.
Hand Painting
Imagine all the creative designs (flowers included) they can make from hand and feet painting.
Making Friendship Bracelets
It's a craft that requires few supplies (string and tape) and a technique that even the littlest ones can learn. An added bonus: kids can actually share it with their friends.
Painting With Nature
Using leaves, petals, and even tangerines to paint — who knew Mother Nature could be so crafty?
Putting Together Foam Trucks
Your local crafts store probably has all the materials, so all kids have to do is put them together for some truck fun.
Crafting Crayon Hearts
They're not just for Valentine's Day; kids can melt crayons into hearts to spread the love all year long.
Making a Garden Stone
Using colorful pieces and handprints to make a garden stone is a great gift idea for Grandma.
Decorate Pots
With just a few markers, tots can doodle on flowerpots (and maybe make paper flowers to go along with them).
Making Masks
Kids'll get a kick out of the masks they can put together with a few simple supplies, like paper plates and crayons.
Make a Stained-Glass Craft
Stained glasses aren't just pretty to look at — they can also let kids explore light and color.