For day twenty of our Stay at Home, Screen Free Activities programme, let’s create junk models!
Junk modelling is a fabulous activity for children to try. Here’s why:
Junk modelling is fun
Using your imagination you can turn your junk into anything your like, giving you DIY toys for lots of play. (Go here to see how I organise my junk and craft supplies)
Junk modelling is creative
Through junk modelling children get to try new materials, in different ways, and make something from nothing – creative play at its best.
Junk modelling is free and environmentally friendly
We’re using stuff we’d otherwise throw away, and re-using and up-cycling to turn it into art, toys, costumes…. You only need a few inexpensive extras to give your a great craft kit which will allow you get the most from your modelling.
Junk modelling is brain boosting
When you’re junk modelling, you’re running your own project.
You have to select the right materials for the job.
You need to think in three dimensions, count, consider angles, work with different shapes – super maths skills put into hands-on action.
Sometimes you have to problem-solve, and you might be working as a team.
All really great skills for children to be developing.
The art and craft material we use most often in our house is junk.
Sticky tape, glue and paint are added in, but many of our projects make use of re-cycled materials.
So, join us! Raid your recycling box and see what you can make. Try these ideas for inspiration:
You could make a magnificent hat.
Go here to see how to model with cardboard boxes.
Make small worlds for imaginary play.
Turn junk into make puppets.
Make a city, winter town or fairy land.
Need more ideas for screen-free play?
Want more ideas for screen-free play? Try the other ideas in our Stay at Home, Screen-free Activities Programme.
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maryanne @ mama smiles says
This is fabulous, Cathy! Just pinned 🙂
Mia says
Hi, love all the ideas.
I’am unable to register I have not received a verification email.
Can any one help please?
Cathy James says
Hi Mia. Did you take a look in your e-mail spam folder? It might be in there.
chloe says
im looking for activities i could do with children please give me an email if you have any idears,many regards chloe meldrum x
Cathy James says
Hi chloe. This whole site is full of great activities for children. You can use the menu at the top to search by topic or by the age of your children.