When the weather outside isn’t playing nice, keeping kids entertained indoors can be a challenge. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! These fun gymnastics-themed crafts will not only keep your little gymnasts busy but also help them stay connected to their favourite sport. Let’s dive into three exciting DIY projects that are perfect for rainy days.
Project 1: Gymnastics Ribbon Wand
Materials Needed:
Wooden dowel (about 12 inches long - chop sticks also work well!)
Colourful ribbons (multiple colours, each about 3 feet long)
Scissors
Hot glue gun
Decorative tape or paint (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Dowel: If desired, paint the wooden dowel or wrap it with decorative tape to add some flair. Allow it to dry completely.
Attach the Ribbons: Cut the ribbons into equal lengths. Using the hot glue gun, attach one end of each ribbon to the top of the dowel, ensuring they are evenly spaced around the top.
Secure the Ribbons: Wrap a small piece of decorative tape around the glued area to cover any exposed glue and to secure the ribbons further.
Let It Dry: Allow the glue to set and dry completely before using the ribbon wand.
Ready to Dance: Once everything is dry, your child can use the gymnastics ribbon wand to perform twirls, jumps, and all kinds of fun movements!
Project 2: Gymnastics Medals
Materials Needed:
Card or thick paper (recycled cereal boxes work a treat!)
Gold, silver, and bronze paint or markers
Ribbon (about 2 feet per medal)
Scissors
Hole punch
Glue
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Cut the Medals: Draw and cut out circles from the cardstock to create the medal shapes. You can trace around a small cup to get perfect circles.
Paint the Medals: Paint the circles gold, silver, and bronze. Allow them to dry completely.
Decorate: Once the paint is dry, let your child decorate the medals with stickers, glitter, or drawings.
Add the Ribbon: Punch a hole at the top of each medal. Cut lengths of ribbon and thread them through the holes, securing with a knot.
Award Ceremony: Now, your child has their own set of gymnastics medals for their indoor competitions and pretend play!
Project 3: Gymnastics Themed T-Shirts
Materials Needed:
Plain white or coloured T-shirts (old stained school t-shirts come in handy here!)
Fabric paint or markers
Stencils (gymnastics-themed, if available)
Paintbrushes or sponges
Cardboard (to place inside the shirt while painting)
Glitter or fabric glue (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Shirt: Place a piece of cardboard inside the T-shirt to prevent paint from bleeding through to the back.
Choose Your Design: Decide on the design for the T-shirt. You can use gymnastics-themed stencils or freehand your own designs. Ideas include silhouettes of gymnasts, gymnastics apparatus, or inspiring gymnastics quotes.
Start Painting: Use fabric paint or markers to create your design. If you’re using stencils, hold them firmly in place and use a sponge or brush to apply the paint.
Add Some Sparkle: For extra flair, you can add glitter or use fabric glue to attach sequins or rhinestones.
Let It Dry: Allow the paint and any additional decorations to dry completely according to the paint manufacturer’s instructions.
Show It Off: Once dry, your child can wear their new gymnastics-themed T-shirt with pride!
Final Thoughts
Rainy days don't have to be boring, especially with these fun gymnastics crafts that keep kids active and creative. Whether they're making a ribbon wand, crafting medals, or designing their own T-shirt, these projects will surely bring a smile to their faces. Plus, they can continue practising their love for gymnastics indoors! Why not bring your amazing crafts in to Wickers next time you're in and show us what you've been making!
Comments