This is a fun way for young children to strengthen fine-motor skills and pincer grip.

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Threading Beads on Uncooked Spaghetti – Fine Motor Activity appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's easy, vibrant and the process is rather fascinating.

All you need is a black crayon and watercolours!

Click the link below to check it out! Go! Go!

The post Doodle Eggs – Easy Vibrant Easter Art that Kids of All Ages will Love appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you're looking for a quick and easy craft for the kids today, head to the recycle bin and grab an egg carton.

These egg carton flowers are so cheerful and precious.

Make wall art like we did, or use them for a wreath or in a vase.

Click the link below to check them out. Go! Go!

The post Egg Carton Flowers for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you and the kids are looking for some great Easter crafts to do this week and next, I've rounded up every Easter craft on my blog, and put them here in this post for you.

There are crafts here for all ages - toddlers, preschoolers, elementary kids and tweens, and enough to keep you busy for days. :)

They're all easy and inexpensive, and a few of them are super-impressive!

Oh! There's even a great Easter snack!

Just click the link below to check them out!

The post Easy Easter Crafts for Preschoolers through Tweens appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Just wanted to let you know I've rounded up all of our favourite St. Patrick's Day crafts and put them all here in one place for you.

These ideas are so cute and easy, and perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.

There are a few in here that elementary school aged kids will enjoy as well!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post 10+ Easy St. Patrick’s Day Crafts for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We made gorgeous Mardi Gras masks the other day, and in true Happy Hooligans fashion, they were super-easy and required just a few basic supplies.

Click the link below to see how colourful and stunning they are! Go, Go!

The post Paper Plate Mardi Gras Masks for Kids to Make – A Fabulous Fat Tuesday Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I was surprised to hear that my daycare hooligans had never heard it before, so we came up with this easy and adorable lion/lamb weather predictor.

What a fun way to guess what March's weather will be like, and to introduce young children to that classic bit of folklore!

Click the link below to see how cute and easy it is!

The post Adorable Lion and Lamb Craft for Kids to Make for the 1st of March appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's Day-21, and the final day in our 21-day Christmas Craft-a-palooza!

For our final craft, we're turning a 3 twigs (or popsicle sticks) into an adorable Rudolph face to hang on your Christmas tree.

It's a quick and easy project, and all you need are the twigs, a pom pom and some google eyes.

Click the link below to check it out!

P.S. Thanks for following along with our 3-week series! I hope you've enjoyed it as much as we have!

The post Twig Triangle Rudolph Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's our 2nd-last day of our Christmas craft series!

We have another super-simple (but gorgeous) craft for you today!

All you need are some twigs, yarn and glue to make these cheerful and eclectic initial ornaments.

This is a super last-minute craft to squeeze in before the holidays.

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Colourful Yarn and Twig Initial Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Today's craft is so goofy and adorable, and it starts with a walk in the yard or neighbourhood to collect some small twigs.

Transform them into tiny reindeer ornaments wearing ribbon or yarn scarves.

Honestly. These little guys just make me laugh.

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Twig Reindeer Ornaments (with ribbon scarves) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I hope you're enjoying them as much as I am!

Today we are making button angels, and they are absolutely darling.

Everyone (adults included) will love sifting through the buttons and ordering and stacking them by size to make these sweet angels.

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Button Angel Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have such a sweet and easy craft to share with you today. All ages will love this one.

Silver, shimmery holiday napkin rings made with a paper towel and aluminum foil. Of course, you can decorate yours however you'd like, but we've used gems and sequins for extra shine and shimmer.

You have to see how pretty they are!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Holiday Napkin Rings with Tinfoil and a Cardboard Roll appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Do your kids love to watch the sky for Santa on Christmas Eve?

If so, you will LOVE this easy craft!

Kids can turn a Pringles can or any cardboard tube into a fun and festive telescope to watch the skies for Santa with!

We call this "Operations Santa Watch".

Isn't it the cutest ever?!

What an easy way to make Christmas Eve more special and memorable!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Pringles Can “Santa-scope” appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Today's spectacular nutcrackers are made from a cardboard roll.

Aren't they fantastic?!

These guys are easy to make. You just paint blocks of colour and then add a face and some craft odds and ends for detail.

These colourful nutcrackers will look amazing displayed on a mantel or table or hanging on your Christmas tree.

And your kids will love the super-creative process!

Click the link below to check them out! GO! GO!

The post Cardboard Roll Nutcracker Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Today's craft is easy, easy, easy, and it's fun for all ages of kids.

Grab some aluminum foil and some Sharpies so the kids can make these these vibrant, iridescent "Christmas balls" to hang on the Christmas tree.

TIP: If you don't have CD's, cut circles out of cardboard!

Lots of sensory fun here with the slick feeling of Sharpies on foil, and scrunching and crunching the foil.

Click the link below to check out this simple but pretty project.

The post Shimmery “Christmas Balls” with Tinfoil and Sharpies appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I'm so excited to share today's craft with you! It's so beautiful, you'll never believe it's made with just an egg carton and paint. T

These ornaments are SO easy to make, and absolutely gorgeous. And they allow kids to get super-creative with colours and design.

Don't you think they look like real old-fashioned vintage ornaments?

Click the link below to see how easy and beautiful they are! Go! Go!

The post Painted Egg Carton Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Today's Christmas craft takes less than 10 minutes to make, but it's one of the sweetest crafts ever.

You're going to turn a pair of baby socks into a keepsake ornament for the Christmas tree.

Parents, you'll use an actual pair of your baby's socks, so this ornament will be come more special as the your child grows up.

Daycare providers and teachers, pick up some baby socks at the dollar store because this is a great fine-motor craft for toddlers and preschoolers.

I hope you love this one as much as I do! Click the link below to check it out.

The post Baby Sock Keepsake Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Young children will find today's craft extra special because the first letter of their name (the most important letter in the world!) is the star of the show.

This one is super-easy, fun and colourful.

Kids will strengthen their fine-motor skills and letter recognition skills while making this delightful initial ornament!

Click the link below to see it and to get the how-to!

The post Cardboard and Button Initial Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

OH MY GOSH!!!

Today's Christmas craft is OVER THE TOP!

It's seriously so simple, but I don't think we've ever made anything this freaking gorgeous!!!!

You won't care if you already have a tree topper because you are going to want to make this one no matter what.

Click the link below to check it out! GO! GO! GO!!

The post Cardboard Roll Christmas Tree Topper (Star) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Our Adorable Painted Santa Stones!

If your kids can paint a straight line and dot paint with the end of a paintbrush, they can totally make these precious little Santa stones.!

Click the link below to see how charming they are! Go, go, go!

.

The post Painted Santa Stones appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Today's craft is the sweetest little (and I DO mean little!) snowman you ever did see.

All you need to make him are 2 pom poms, a button and a piece of yarn.

Make him tiny to decorate a mini tree or make a larger version for a bigger Christmas tree.

Click the link below to see how super-cute and super-easy this one is!

The post Tiny Pom Pom Snowman Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

No-Sew Fabric Bookmarks!

YES! They're no-sew so even the youngest crafters can make them.

All you need is a piece of cardboard and a small scrap of fabric. Add a yarn tassel, and kids will have a terrific homemade Christmas gift for a book-loving parent or friend..

Click the link below to see how awesome they look!

The post No-Sew Fabric Bookmarks appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's GRINCH Day!

Remember those awesome Gnome ornaments we made a couple of years ago?

Well, we've tweaked that craft to make GRINCH gnomes, and the results were adorable!!

Super-easy. Super-cute!

Click the link below to check them out! Go! Go!

The post Yarn and Cardboard Grinch Gnome Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Today, we're turning our old, scratched CDs and DVDs into spectacular GALAXY ORNAMENTS.

This one is super-easy but the results are (excuse the pun) out of this world!

All you need is a CD or DVD and some paint!

Click the link below to see how gorgeous they are! Go! Go!

The post Spectacular CD Galaxy Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Santa Crafts for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Today, we're making the easiest-ever wine cork snowmen. They're stark, their simple, and they're beautiful.

All you need is a wine cork (makes 2 snowmen), buttons, ribbon and glue.

Click the link below to see how pretty they are! Go, Go!

The post Snowman Ornaments with Wine Cork Slices appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Today, we bring you: Colourful Cardboard Roll Icicles!

They're quick, they're easy and they're gorgeous!

All you need ito make them is a toilet paper (or paper towel) roll and paint!

Make a bunch for your Christmas tree or hang them in your window!

Click the link below to see how pretty and easy they are! GO! GO!

The post Cardboard Roll Icicles appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Should I Give My Child an Allowance? appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Wine Cork Crafts appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Today's craft is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, but older kids will love it too.

Grab an egg carton! We're making jingle bells! And you should see how beautiful they look!

Click the link below to check them out! Go! GO!

The post Egg Carton Christmas Bells appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We've been busy here crafting for the season, and I'm thrilled to tell you I have 21 brand new Christmas Craft ideas to share with you this month.

There's plenty for all age groups, and as always they're easy and made from things you have around the house, and they all look GREAT!

I'm kicking things off today with these simple and charming cardboard bird ornaments.

All you need is a cereal box, glue and some paint to make them!

Can you believe how gorgeous they are? Click the link below to see them. Go! Go!

The post Cardboard Bird Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post 5 Angel Crafts for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you're looking for an adorable and meaningful craft to make with your kids this weekend check out our kid-friendly Advent wreath!

Even the youngest kids can "light" the candles every Sunday as they count down to Christmas. xx

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Cardboard Roll Advent Wreath Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you're looking for a super-easy, last minute Veteran's Day craft, I have one last one for you.

These circle poppy homemade cards can be given to veterans to thank them for their service, or you can simply use them as inspiration for a paper circle art activity.

All ages from preschoolers to tweens will enjoy making these poppies (I love the one with the fringed edge!)

All you need is paper and scissors for this one. xo

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Homemade Poppy Cards for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you're looking for some easy and beautiful poppies for your kids to make at home, preschool or daycare, you'll want to check these ones out.

They're all fun and creative enough for older kids to enjoy, but easy enough for toddlers and preschoolers to do with little assistance.

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Easy Poppy Crafts for Kids to Make for Remembrance Day appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I've rounded up 21 of my favourite easy Halloween crafts for toddlers and preschoolers. They're all simple and inexpensive to make, using stuff you already have around the house.

And BONUS: they're absolutely adorable! Click the link below to see them all now!

The post 21 Easy Halloween Crafts for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Spring has sprung and the birds are back in the yard!

Here's an easy way for the kids to make a colourful bird feeder for their feathered friends!

All you need is a cardboard box and some paint!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Easy Homemade Cardboard Bird Feeder for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Yarn Rainbow Beginner Sewing Activity appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Coming at you with another sweet and simple rainbow craft for St. Patrick's Day!

This one covers International Happiness Day (March 20) as well.

All you need is coloured paper, a pencil, a marker, scissors and glue.

This simple rainbow craft gets kids focusing on positive thoughts and the things that bring them joy.

Perfect for times like these when some days are more difficult than others. xo

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Rainbow Happiness Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post How to Dye Pasta the Easy Way! appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you have older kids (7+ and up) crafting for St. Patrick's Day, you'll want to check out our easy but beautiful rainbow yarn wall hanging.

It's gorgeous!!

There's cutting, measuring and tying involved, but it's super-simple. The only supplies you need are a stick, some yarn and a few cotton makeup pads or cotton balls.

It makes me smile every time it catches my eye. What a cool way to add a happy pop of colour to a bedroom, playroom or classroom.

Click the link below to check it out! GO! GO!

The post Yarn Rainbow Wall Hanging Craft for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you're getting this snowy blast of winter (or even if you're not), you're likely focusing on snow-themed crafts and activities this week.

Here's a pretty snowflake decoration to hang on the door in your home or classroom.

All you need to make it are some toilet paper rolls, paint and a low-heat glue gun!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Toilet Roll Snowflake Wreath appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you're looking for a quick and easy winter-themed craft to do with the kids this week, these toilet paper roll icicles are terrific!

They're simple to make, and they're just delightful when strung across the top of a window at home or in the classroom.

Bonus, you can make them even if your craft supplies are dwindling because all you need are cardboard rolls, paint and string!

Click the link below to check them out! xx

The post Toilet Paper Roll Icicles appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have the cutest, colourful toilet roll craft for your kids to make for Valentine's Day.

It's a super-easy garland of hearts that you can string across a window, bookshelf, mantel etc.

It's so simple to make, but my goodness, it is SO pretty!!

Click the link below to see it! GO! GO!

The post TP Roll Heart Garland appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Just a quick line to let you know I've rounded up our best homemade Valentine's cards and put them into one post for you.

If your hooligans are making cards for their parents or friends this week, you'll want to check it out. :)

I've grouped them into two sections - one for kids under 5 and one for kids 5-12.

They're all fun and easy and each one provides kids with an interesting art or craft experience, so enjoy!

Just click the link below to check them out! Happy crafting!

The post 10 Homemade Valentine’s Cards Kids can Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

One week to go until Valentine's Day, so I'm sure your little ones are ready for some "heart-filled" crafting.

These Valentine's cards are super-easy to make, and all ages will love the fun and colourful process.

All you need to make them is a cardboard roll and some paint!

Click the link below to see what it's all about! xx

The post Overlapping Hearts Valentines Card (Toilet Roll Stamping) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If your kids are looking for a cool gift to make for a parent or grandparent check out this idea!

This coffee cup sleeve is no-knit and no-sew, and really easy to make.

We've decorated ours with hearts for Valentine's Day, but they make great gifts any time of year!

Click the link below to check them out! xx

The post Homemade Coffee Cup Sleeve for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have another sweet and simple craft for your kids to make today.

This toilet paper roll snowman is easy to make, using minimal supplies, he's downright adorable.

The only supplies you need are tp rolls (or a paper towel roll), paint, buttons and a piece of ribbon.

You just paint the cardboard rolls, stack them, glue them, and decorate.

Stand him up on a windowsill, desk or dresser, and enjoy while we ride out these last few weeks of winter.

Click the link below to see how sweet he is!

The post Stacked Toilet Paper Roll Snowman Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Here's a terrific craft for the kids to make, and it only requires a couple of things you probably have in your recycling bin.

It will keep their school supplies organized for online learning, and it's portable, so especially handy if they don't work in a dedicated space every day, or if they have to clean the space up at the end of the day.

I love it so much! Click the link below to check it out!

The post TP Roll Desk Caddy appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The process is perfect for all ages - from elementary school kids right up to teens, and it's rather addictive, so it will keep them entertained for ages.

String them into a garland or mobile, or plaster a window with them for a happy pop of colour this winter.

They're GORGEOUS!

Click the link below to check them out! Go! Go!

The post 3-D Paper Snowflakes Snowflakes (The Easy Way) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I hope you're having a peaceful and relaxing holiday.

I just wanted to pop in with a terrific New Years craft that you can do with all ages of kids.

It's a goal-setting activity and an art activity combined.

It's bright, it's colourful, and it's a whole lot of fun.

Click the link below to check it out!

Happy New Year, my friend. xx

The post New Years Goal-Setting Activity (with painted jars) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Just a quick little last-minute Christmas craft for the kids to make this week!

They clip right to the Christmas tree, and all you need to make them are wooden clothespins and paint!

Click the link below to check them out! xx

The post Painted Clothespin Christmas Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have the quickest, easiest Christmas ornaments to share with you today!

They're simple cookie cutter shapes (printable in post), and we've made a whole set of red and white ones.

They're stunning!

You could have your kids make different coloured sets and hang them all over your tree or give the sets as little Christmas gifts.

Click the link below to see them ! Go! Go!

The post Painted Cardboard Cookie Cutter Ornaments (colour-themed) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I'm so excited about these colourful stained glass Christmas shapes!

We tweaked the traditional tissue paper stained glass process, and made it easy enough for toddlers and preschoolers.

You can hang these on your tree or decorate a whole window with them.

They're gorgeous!!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Tissue Paper Stained Glass Christmas Shapes for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you're looking for a fun, easy and lovely craft for the kids to make today, have them make these beautiful homemade Christmas cards.

They're perfect for giving to friends, neighbours, teachers, the bus driver etc. when you're giving a little gift or a gift card.

All you need is white paper and a few scraps of leftover fabric. If you don't have fabric, use colourful, patterned paper or wallpaper samples!

Hope you love them as much as we do! xx

Click the link below to check them out.

The post Fabric Scrap Christmas Cards appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Comin'' at you with your super-easy, super-cute Christmas craft of the day.

Remember the super-sweet gingerbread man and house craft I shared with you a couple of weeks ago?

Well, this one's similar but quite possibly even cuter.

Mmmm... yah. It's definitely cuter.

Just as easy though, so click the link below to check it out!

The post Cardboard Gingerbread Star Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Well, we've made Santa ornaments the same way, and the cuteness is almost too much to handle!

All you need is cardboard a scrap of fabric (you could use paper) and yarn.

You have to check them out! Click the link below to see them. Go! Go!

The post Yarn and Cardboard Santa Ornaments for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I'm a little late getting our craft of the day to you today, but better late than never, right?

If you have some scrap cardboard, and leftover bits of fabric from other projects, these adorable ornaments are a terrific way to use them up!

The kids can hang them on the tree, or use them as gift-toppers this Christmas! xx

Click the link below to see how cute and easy they are!

The post Fabric Scrap Christmas Tree Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have the simplest, most beautiful homemade ornament to show you!

It's just folded paper, and what's cool, is that you can use your kids' artwork to make them.

They're ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS, and all you need to make them is paper and a glue stick.

Click the link below to see how easy and beautiful they are!

The post Folded Paper Ball Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Just wanted you to know that I've just rounded up all of my bible-based Christmas crafts and put them into one post for you.

If you need a craft for Sunday School, VBS, or a Christ-based Christmas craft, you'll find 10 easy ideas here.

Click the link below to check it out. xx

The post 10 Sunday School Christmas Crafts appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have the most beautiful tissue paper stained glass project to share with you today.

You only need tissue paper and popsicle sticks to make them, but holy moly, they look just like real stained glass!

Have the kids make a whole bunch to decorate a window in your home or classroom.

What a cheery pop of colour on a dreary winter day.

Click the link below to check them out! Go! Go!

The post Tissue Paper Stained Glass Stars appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

On a mission to bring you a new holiday craft every day this December, and today is Day 9.

Check out these gorgeous "Vintage" Christmas tree ornaments! They're so pretty!!

All you need to make them is a piece of cardboard, paint, and craft gems, sequins, glitter etc.

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Cardboard “Vintage” Christmas Ornament Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

They're fun and easy to make, and toddlers and preschoolers can safely "light" the pretend candles all by themselves.

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Menorah Crafts for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

One last menorah craft, and it's the CUTEST one yet! It's the easiest to make too!

All you need is an egg carton, popsicle sticks and paint.

Click the link below to see just how pretty it is! xx

The post Egg Carton Menorah Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have another adorable (and super-easy) homemade ornament to share with you.

Grab 2 wine corks (or champagne corks).

These nutcracker heads (similar to our Santa heads the other day) are so easy to make.

Hang them on your Christmas tree, or twist them around the neck of a bottle of wine, and give as a gift.

I absolutely LOVE them! Click the link below to check 'em out!

The post Wine Cork Nutcracker Heads on a String appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Hands down this is our prettiest one yet.

I just LOVE the colourful "candles". It's fun and easy to "light" too! Just pinch the clothespin open and add a flame. Great for fine motor development too!

Click the link below to see how pretty it is!

The post Cardboard and Clothespin Menorah with Paper Flames appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Super-short, super-easy, super-cute little post here.

We turned wine corks into the most adorable little Santa ornaments.

You can hang them on your tree, or give them as add-ons if you're giving a bottle of wine at Christmas!

Click the link below to check them out! xx

The post Wine Cork Santas Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have another absolutely adorable menorah that kids can safely "light" by themselves for Hanukkah.

This time we're using wine corks and toothpicks for the candles.

Your kids are going to love it. It's just the prettiest!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Wine Cork Menorah Craft that Kids can “Light” appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I can assure you, they'll all be easy, made with basic craft supplies and recyclables, and they'll all be ADORABLE.

Case in point: today's super-cute gingerbread man in his gingerbread house.

These were inspired by a store-bought ornament (you can see it in the post), but I honestly think our homemade version is cuter!

Click the link below for the how-to!

The post Adorable, Easy Gingerbread Man and House Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have the most ADORABLE menorah craft to share with you today!

It's ridiculously easy to make, and totally safe for toddlers and preschoolers to "light" by themselves.

Click the link below to see how gosh-darn cute it is!

The post Toilet Paper Roll Menorah appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's December! My favourite month for crafting, and we're kicking things off with these GORGEOUS painted egg ornaments!

Grab a few of those dollar store plastic Easter eggs and paint, and prepare yourself for the most magical makeover ever!

Click the link below to see how ours turned out! They're incredible! Go! Go!

The post Painted Plastic Egg Christmas Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I CANNOT WAIT for you to see these adorable nutcracker ornaments.

They're seriously the cutest things ever, and all you need to make them is a wine cork, a clothespin and some paint.

Hang them on your tree, or have the kids make them in sets to give as gifts to family and friends this Christmas!

You have to check them out! GO! GO!

The post Cork and Clothespin Nutcracker Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have one more super-cute and easy pumpkin pie craft for those of you celebrating Thanksgiving in the U.S. this week!

This time we've used 2-ingredient puffy paint for the pie filling (the texture looks like real pie filling), and cotton balls for whipped cream.

If you need an easy last minute Thanksgiving craft for the kids to do tomorrow, check this one out!

Click the link below and HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

The post Paper Plate Pumpkin Pie Craft with Cotton Balls appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

With the American Thanksgiving come up, I thought I'd round up all of our easy and adorable Thanksgiving crafts and put them all here in one handy place for you.

Click the link below for cute and easy turkeys, pumpkin pies, gratitude crafts and more!

The post 10+ Thanksgiving Crafts for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I'm back with another super-cute pumpkin pie craft for your toddlers and preschoolers.

The one I shared the other day called for shaving cream, and I know some of you can't (or would rather not) use that with your kids/students.

So.... we made another "pie" with a few more options for the whipped cream.

It's even easier that our other pie, but it smells and looks just as yummy!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Scented Pumpkin Pie Craft with Cotton Ball Whipped Cream appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have another adorable Thanksgiving craft for you!

Check out our vibrant paper plate "Thankful Turkeys".

This is such a lovely way to encourage kids to reflect on what they're grateful for as Thanksgiving draws near.

Plus, they're a whole lot of fun to make!

Click the link below to see them!

The post Thankful Turkey – Paper Plate Gratitude Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We made the cutest pumpkin pie craft you've ever seen!

It's simply adorable, super-easy, and it looks good enough to eat!

The whipped cream part is amazing - it's just glue and shaving cream, and you can even scent your paint with some spices if you like!

We even made our own little foil pie plate for it to sit in!

It's just the cutest ever. Click the link below to check it out! Go! Go!

The post Pumpkin Pie Craft (with Puffy Whipped Cream) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have the most wonderful, super-easy, colourful and fun activity for your toddlers and preschoolers to try!

Can you tell I think it's awesome?! Ha!

You know those "sticky window" activities with tissue paper and contact paper?

Well....I figured out a way to do with without contact paper.

It's GORGEOUS!!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Fall Leaf Sticky Window Activity (with an alternative to contact paper) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have the most beautiful craft to share with you today.

It's not an ordinary Thankful tree. We've extended the activity by making our leaves with our simple 2-ingredient clay-dough recipe).

Paint your leaves and write what you're thankful for on them, and use your tree as a centrepiece on your Thanksgiving table.

It's gorgeous!! Check it out!! Go! Go!

The post Thankful Tree Craft (with Painted Homemade Clay Dough Leaves) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We got a little behind with our crafting, so we're cramming the last minute Veteran's crafts in before it's too late.

This one is perfect for a last-minute poppy craft if you're running out of time too.

All you need is tissue paper and glue and a piece of thick paper or a paper plate.

P.S. Every kid loves this art process, from the toddlers right through tot the tweens.

Check it out! Go! Go!

The post Puffy Tissue Paper Poppy Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Remember the beautiful egg carton poppies we made the other day?

Well, we've used them to make Remembrance Day wreaths for tomorrow.

I just love how we fringed the paper plate so it mimics realistic greenery.

Super-easy, really pretty, and such a lovely way to honour our veterans.

Click the link below to check it out! Go! Go!

The post Paper Plate Poppy Wreath (with Egg Carton Poppies) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Eeek!! I'm so thrilled to share this post with you!

Whoever knew an egg carton craft could be so beautiful?!

If your kids are making poppy crafts and art this week for Remembrance Day/Veteran's Day on Wednesday, you'll want to check these out!

They're quick to make and easy enough for all ages, and they're just beautiful!

Click the link below to check them out! Go! Go!

The post Egg Carton Poppies for Remembrance Day Crafts appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have the most wonderful Veteran's Day (or Remembrance Day) craft to share with you!

These painted "Poppy Stones" are a lovely way to thank a veteran for their service.

They can be hand-delivered and given personally, or you can place them at your local cenotaph so veterans can help themselves to one.

This is such a lovely group project for a family or classroom to do together.

I've kept the design simple so even the youngest children can make them. xo

Click the link below to check them out!!

The post Painted Poppy Stones for Remembrance Day appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The spookiest day of the year is finally here, and we have one last super-cool Halloween craft for your kids today.

It's a vibrant piece of spooky Silhouette art, and all you need to make it is paint, parchment paper or wax paper, and black paper.

We've hung ours in our dining room window, and when the sun shines through it... oh my! Brilliant!!

Click the link below to check it out! Go! Go!

The post Halloween Silhouette Art with Painted Parchment or Wax Paper appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Ok, I'm not sure if you read that in a witch's voice, but hopefully you did because I have thee CUTEST witch craft ever to share with you today!

Seriously. So cute. So easy. All you need is some cardboard and a few scraps and odds and ends from the craft cupboard.

I'm dying for you to see them. Please let me know what you think.

Click the link below to check them out!! EEEEK! xx

The post Yarn and Cardboard Witch Craft for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Check out the fall leaf silhouettes we made for our dining room window. They're gorgeous!! So vibrant and beautiful, and we used a really fun art technique to colour them.

Click the link below to see how lovely they look! Go! Go!

The post Vibrant Fall Leaf Silhouette Window Art appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The vibrant colours and falling leaves in our yard have inspired me to make this terrific leaf-matching activity for toddlers and preschoolers.

It's great for teaching kids how to match colours, patterns, shapes and sizes. It will also strengthen fine-motor skills and co-ordination.

It's super-easy easy to make too! I've even included a free leaf-shape printable in case you need it.

Click the link below to check it out! x

The post Leaf Matching Activity for Preschoolers (Printable Included) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have another adorable Halloween craft to share with you.

This one is super-easy and requires very little prep and clean up and just a few basic supplies.

If your kids enjoyed our Cardboard Heart String Art project last year, they'll likely love this one too!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Cardboard Pumpkin String Art Craft for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

They were super-fun and easy to make and they turned out great - even better than I had envisioned.

It's a great craft for all ages, and you can make just one or two, or an entire village!

Wouldn't they look cute all lined up on a windowsill in your home or classroom?

Click the link below to see how sweet they are! Go! Go!

The post Milk Carton Haunted House Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

After an extended summer break, I'm back with a quick, easy and super-cool yarn craft for your kids.

These yarn and pipe cleaner bracelets can be made in about 10 minutes, and require just two things - yarn and a pipe cleaner.

They're much easier than traditional friendship bracelets, but just as fun to make and trade with friends.

Great for after-school crafting, Brownies, Girl Scouts, Craft Camp etc.

Check them out and give them a try!

Just click the link below for the photos and how-to. xx

The post Easy Pipe Cleaner and Yarn Bracelets appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Have you ever wished for a lightbox or a light table in your daycare, playroom or classroom?

They're so expensive to buy, right?

Well, I'm going to show you how to make one for under 10 bucks using a plastic container and an inexpensive LED light.

It will provide your kids with hours of fun and learning for under 10 bucks!

Click the link below for the easy instructions!

The post How to Make a Homemade Light Box appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I wanted to share one of my favourite activities for toddlers and preschoolers with you.

If you have little ones who are just itching to butter their own toast or make their own peanut butter sandwiches, this is such a fun way to teach them how to spread with a knife.

Take it outside and have some fun with it! They'll strengthen their fine motor skills and co-ordinaiton, hone their knife-spreading skills and get some sensory play and structure-building in as well!

Click the link below to check out the fun! xx

The post Teach Kids How to Spread with a Knife with Blocks and Shaving Cream appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If your kids are looking for a beautiful craft to make today, check out these painted rock garden markers.

The black and white design is so simple, and they really look striking nestled in among the bright green foliage in the garden.

Make them for your own herb or vegetable garden, or for a friend, family member or neighbour!

Click the link below to see how lovely they are!

The post Painted Rock Garden Markers (Easy Design) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I am completely smitten with this latest art project!

I think it's my favourite art activity for the year.

It's so relaxing, it's pretty much mess-free, and it will keep the kids busy for hours (or even days!)

Plus, the results are just SO CUTE!

Click the link below to check it out! Go! Go!

The post Yarn Painting For Kids (Huichol Style Yarn Art) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have the most awesome, totally easy homemade Father's Day gift to share with you!

I made a bunch of these garden markers for my herb garden yesterday, and I LOVE them!

They're so pretty, and so quick and easy to make.

Start to finish, the project took me less than an hour!

Click the link below to see how pretty they look in my garden! Go! Go!

The post Easy Homemade Paint Stick Garden Markers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If your kids are making homemade Father's Day card, I have the SWEETEST idea to share with you.

This is probably the easiest Father's Day card we've ever made, but my goodness, it looks terrific!

The glitter is optional, so if you're not a fan, feel free to go without!

The post Painted Lollipop Father’s Day Card for the “Sweetest Pop” appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Sunday is Father's Day so thought I'd share some of our favourite homemade Father's Day cards with you.

They're all easy and fun and really unique.

Whether Dad's a bow-tie, neck-tie or tee-shirt kind of guy, your kids will find some terrific ways here to tell Dad just how much he's loved on his special day.

Enjoy! xx

The post 6 Cool Homemade Father’s Day Cards for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have another DELICIOUS, healthy, no-flour cookie recipe to share with you.

They're so good I've made them 2x in 3 days.

No flour, no oil, no egg, no sugar required. They're soft, moist and chewy and super-quick and easy to make!

1 bowl! Just mash the bananas and stir in the rest of the ingredients. 2 minutes. Boom. Ready for the oven.

You have to try them!

Click the link below for the recipe!

The post Peanut Butter, Banana, Oatmeal Chocolate-Chip Cookies (Flourless Recipe) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If your craft cupboards are running low, or if you'd just like to spend less on craft supplies, you will love epic collection of ideas!

I've rounded up all of our favourite nature crafts and put them right here in one spot for you.

Sticks, stones, flowers, leaves, pinecones, seashells... we've made so many cool crafts, art projects and homemade gifts with all of these items and more.

Click the link below to check them out!

Then get outside with your kids today to collect and create! xx

The post 50+ Nature Crafts for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you're looking to do some comfort baking this week, this is the BEST. RHUBARB. CAKE. EVER.

I've made it 2x in the past couple of weeks because my rhubarb patch is at its prime.

It's SO easy and it's INSANELY moist and delicious.

I hope you'll give a try! xx

Click below for the recipe!

The post Easy Rhubarb Cake {From Scratch} – a Delicious Summer Dessert appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The craft I'm sharing with you today is perfect, given the circumstances right now.

It's a way that we can show love and kindness to our community, safely from our own homes.

These coat hanger hearts make a fun weaving (or wrapping) craft for kids, and are a creative way to send a message of love out to friends, neighbours and passersby.

Hang them from a tree, in a window or from your front porch or balcony, to share some much-needed love and inspiration with your community. xx

The post Coat Hanger Weaving – Hearts for Hope appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I'm so excited to share our latest, greatest craft with you!

Tweens and teens will love it, and younger kids can make it with a bit of assistance.

It's a DIY caddy to organize pens, pencils and art supplies. It's bright and colourful and really quick and easy to make.

All you need are some cardboard rolls and yarn!

Quick the link below to check it out! x

The post Yarn-Wrapped Toilet Roll Art Supply Organizer for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's National Blueberry Cheesecake Day!

I didn't even know that was a day, but happily, it was the perfect excuse to make my favourite easiest-ever cheesecake!

This cheesecake is a classic and it's 100% no-bake.

Just put your layers together in a pan and chill. Easy-peasy, and SO delicious.

Doesn't it look decadent?

Click the link below to check it out.

The post No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The weather has FINALLY warmed up here, so I wanted to share a terrific backyard activity that will keep your little ones entertained and learning for ages.

Check out our pretend play flower shop!

It's super-easy to set up with some dollar store artificial flowers, and a few jars, containers and scoops.

You'll love what we've used for the "potting soil". It makes for such a wonderful sensory experience and it's much more interesting than dirt (although that will do just fine if that's what you'd like to use).

Check it out with the link below!

The post Dramatic Play Flower Shop for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Like, SERIOUSLY favourite. This one surpasses all of my other go-to muffin recipes.

I made these the other day, and my family thought they'd died and gone to heaven.

They're so moist and delicious and they're jam-packed with all kinds of goodness: carrots, apple, coconut, pecans, cranberries...

And, if you don't have all of those, you can sub in whatever you do have: any nut, raisins, pepita seeds or sunflower seeds etc. Just use watcha got!

Surprise your family with some this week! I'm pretty sure you'll love them as much as we do! xx

Click the link below for the easy recipe!

The post Morning Glory Muffins (Easy and Delicious!) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Mother's Day is less than a month away, and I just wanted you to know that I put our most GORGEOUS crafts together in one place for you.

These are some of the best Mother's Day crafts we've made over the years, and oh my goodness, they are beauties!

What mom wouldn't love to receive one of these on her special day?

Click the link below to check them out!

These just around the corner, and guess what! I've rounded up a bunch of gorgeous, easy and inexpensive crafts for kids of all ages.

Not only have I rounded up some stellar crafts that any Mom would love to receive, I've popped in a couple of homemade card ideas, and some homemade gift wrap projects too!

I hope you love them! Check 'em out!

The post More Easy, Awesome Mother’s Day Crafts for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you're in need of a new go-to muffin recipe, this is one of my very favourites.

I've been making these blueberry oat muffins for years because they're so quick and easy and SO GOOD.

You can make them with fresh or frozen blueberries, and the quick oats add such a great texture.

They're moist and delicious and the sugar-cinnamon topping is divine.

Make some with the kids today! I can pretty much guarantee they'll become a new family favourite at your house too! x

Click the link below for the recipe!

The post Easy Blueberry Oatmeal Muffins appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The teens and tweens out there have been on my mind a lot because this is such a difficult time for them, and they're not as easily entertained as younger children.

It's prompted me to put together a big list of hobbies and pastimes that might interest them.

These aren't projects that will just fill an hour or two. They're a mix of old-fashioned classics and modern-day activities that can be enjoyed for days or weeks, or maybe even a life-time.

If you don't have older kids of your own, I hope you'll pass this along to friends or relatives who do.

Click the link below, and enjoy. xx

The post 51 Hobbies, Pastimes and Projects for Teens and Tweens appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I'm coming at you today with a post that I'm really excited about.

YARN CRAFTS! Loads of them for kids of all ages!

All you'll need is a ball of yarn, and one or two other supplies that you likely already have on hand.

From simple lacing activities for toddlers to classic yarn crafts for 5-10 year olds, to beginner sewing, weaving and knitting crafts for tweens and teens, this post has all of our favourites.

I hope these ideas will keep your kids busy, learning and happy for hours and hours in the coming days and weeks.

Enjoy! xx

Click the link below to check them all out!

The post 35+ Yarn Crafts for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's National Pretzel Day, and I have another AMAZING 2-ingredient recipe for you!

I made these soft pretzels and pretzel bites yesterday, and Oh. My. Goodness!!

They were so soft and delicious, I couldn't believe they were so easy to make.

You HAVE to try them! Go! Go!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post 2-Ingredient Pretzel Dough (No Yeast Recipe) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

At no other time have we been more aware of how important the health of our planet is, and how critical it is that we respect and appreciate its resources and overall well-being.

Take some time today to make one of these crafts with your child, and to reflect on what our beautiful Earth means to you and your family. xox

You'll find them at the link below.

The post 23 Earth Day Crafts, Treats and Activities for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I'm coming at you with another amazing recipe to make when you're running low on your regular baking supplies.

These banana mayo muffins are AMAZING.

They're totally moist and delicious, and no egg, no oil, no butter required!

And they couldn't be any easier to make! Just 3 easy steps!

I can pretty much guarantee these will become a new family favourite!

Check them out and make some with your kids! Go! Go!

The post Banana Mayonnaise Muffins (Moist and Delicious) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I'm SO excited to share this super-easy, super-delicious bread recipe with you!

You can use this flatbread for naan, pizza crusts, wraps, burgers, tacos, or for soaking up soups and sauces.

And all you need is 2 ingredients! No-rise flour and Greek yogurt!

Don't worry if you don't have no-rise flour.... I tell you how to make that in the post. :)

Another winning recipe for times like these when your pantry may be running low.

Click the link below to check it out!

The post 2-Ingredient Flatbread Recipe appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I wanted to share this absolutely AMAZING chocolate cake recipe with you!

It's perfect for times like this when you're baking and cooking with ingredients you have on hand rather than going to the grocery store.

This cake is so moist, rich and delicious, and it doesn't require eggs, milk or butter.

The homemade frosting does use 3 tbsp of butter, but the cake is so good you don't even need to frost it.

Click the link below to check it out!

ENJOY! xxx

The post Chocolate Depression Cake – (Wartime Cake or Wacky Cake) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I know Easter looks a lot different this year, but we can still have fun at home with our own families!

If you're planning on dyeing eggs this weekend, take a look at these cool and creative techniques!

They're all easy. I promise! But they produce some of the most beautiful eggs you'll ever decorate.

BONUS: There's even a way to decorate gorgeous plastic dollar store eggs if you don't want to use real eggs!

Click the link below! Go! Go!

The post Easy Ways to Dye One-Of-A-Kind Eggs with Your Kids This Easter appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

All you need is a glass jar, a bit of white glue and a few drops of food colouring.

You can give your jars a beautiful frosted effect, in a rainbow of colours, and your kids can use them to store pens, art brushes, make-up brushes etc. in.

They're gorgeous and they're so super-easy to make!

Click the link below to check them out! xx

The post Frosted Glass Jars with Glue and Food Colouring appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

When I shared my no-knead pizza dough recipe the other day, many of you said you couldn't make it because you can't get your hands on any yeast.

Well, good news! I've modified the recipe so you can make it without yeast!

We used the recipe twice this week to make mini pizzas, but you can make one family size pizza with this recipe as well.

Give it a try and make it with your kids this weekend for lunch or dinner or movie night!

Click the link below for the recipe, and stay well, my friend. xx

The post No-Yeast Pizza Dough Recipe appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I don't know about you, but here at our house, sidewalk chalk is a go-to whenever we're outside. I keep a bucket of it on my front porch for whenever we need something to do in between activities, at drop-off, pick-up etc.

We've come up with some pretty creative ways to use it over the years, so I wanted to share those with you.

From adding water, to paintbrushes to really fun drawing activities, you'll find some new ideas here to entertain your kids with when you're outdoors this week.

Click the link below to check them out. xx

The post Sidewalk Chalk Activities for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

As we adjust to this new (but temporary) normal, many of you have said you're finding it challenging to find projects and activities for your older kids.

Well, it thrills me to share with you these fingerless gloves that your tweens and teens can make using a cardboard tube (like a Pringles tube or a bread crumb container, or even a roll of duct tape) and a few popsicle sticks and yarn.

They knit up in an hour (no knitting sills required), and your kids can really wear them! (I know because I made a pair for myself!)

They're freaking AWESOME!!

Check them out with the link below!! Go! Go!

The post Loom Knit Fingerless Gloves (Homemade Knitting Loom) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I just wanted to share another fun and easy St. Patrick's Day craft with you.

Did you see the beaded rainbows we made the other day?

Well, these rainbows are similar, but they're sun catchers, and boy, do they look pretty hanging in the window with the sun streaming through them!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Beaded Rainbow Sun Catcher Craft for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I hope your week is off to a good start!

I just wanted to pop in and share this simple bird feeder craft with you.

If you have stale cereal in the cupboard and some fruit that's past its best, this is such a great way to put it all to good use.

Your little ones will strengthen their fine-motor skills, and they'll feel so good doing this simple act of kindness for the birds and squirrels in your backyard.

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Fruit and Cheerios Bird Feeder appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have a wonderful rainbow craft to kick off your St. Patrick's Day crafting!

This one is great for fine-motor development and learning about colour order and colour families.

And it's so fun and pretty that kids of all ages will love it.

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Bead and Pipe Cleaner Rainbow appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Today's post talks about a common challenge that many parents (and daycare providers) experience...

What to do when a child has difficulty settling in at a new daycare.

I've compiled tips and advice of my own and from others (real parents and providers) who have been there, and come through on the other side.

I'd love it if you would pass it along to anyone you think it may help.

xo

The post What to Do When Your Child Isn’t Settling Into Daycare appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I just wanted to share my new favourite cookie recipe with you.

They're super-healthy but totally yummy! I've been making them about once a week because I've cleaned up my eating habits, but these still satisfy my sweet tooth.

The totally feel like a cheat, but they don't contain any flour, oil, egg or refined sugar.

They're soft, yet crunchy and nutty and packed with peanut butter and banana flavour. They're guilt-free and SO GOOD!

Click the link below for the easy recipe! xo

The post Healthy Breakfast Cookies appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Several times over the years, I've had parents write to me asking what they can do if their child has trouble making friends at school.

Each time, I've taken the question to my Facebook community to get real answers from parents who have been there with their child.

I thought I'd put the most common suggestions and solutions into a blog post so I can share it when the question comes up in the future, and I thought I'd share it with you today too.

If you have a child of your own, or in your care, who struggles to make friends in the classroom or on the playground, you may find the advice here helpful. xx

Just click the link below to read the full post.

The post What to Do When Your Child Can’t Make Friends at School appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

With St. Patrick's Day not too far off, I wanted to share a super-easy shamrock art activity that all ages will enjoy.

It uses the classic "symmetry painting" technique. Young children will be fascinated with it, but older kids will love it as well.

Remember to keep this one in mind when you're decorating your classroom or playroom for St. Patrick's Day!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Rainbow Ink Blot Shamrock Craft for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I hope you've had a great week!

I just wanted to share a few ideas that I thought your kids (big and small) might enjoy next week.

Stamping! Is there a kid out there who doesn't love it?

I've rounded up all of our stamping and print-making ideas and put them into one post for you.

You don't need any special stamps or ink pads either - you can use things you already have around the house - toilet rolls, styrofoam, wine corks etc.

They're all super-easy and super-fun ways to get creative if your kids are bored or cooped up indoors because of nasty weather.

Click the link below to check them out. Enjoy!

The post Stamping and Print-Making Activities for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post 15 Valentines Crafts for 5-10 Year Olds appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Have I told you lately how much I LOVE you for following along with our activities. I truly do. You have no idea how much it means to me. <3 With Valentines right around the corner, I'm rounding up some of the very best Valentines crafts we've made over the years. The collection I'm sharing today is geared to the 8 and up crowd. If you have pre-tweens, tweens and teens in the house, these gorgeous crafts will keep them busy right through to Valentines Day. <3 Click the link below to check them out!

The post 11 Valentines Crafts for Tweens and Teens appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

My older girls mod-podged journal covers today, and a couple of them said it's the best craft they've ever done here.

Now, these girls have done a TON of crafts here over the past 10 or so years, so that's an indication of how big of a hit it was.

It was SUPER-easy, SUPER fun and it kept them busy for about 4 hours. I'm not even kidding!

If you have older kids (or grandkids) of your own or in your after-school program, I would highly recommend this activity for them.

Just pick up a bunch of second-hand magazines, and some dollar store journals, and you'll give them an experience they'll remember for a long time.

Click the link below to check them out! They're pretty cool! I even made one myself. :)

The post Mod Podge Journals for Tweens and Teens appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I am SO EXCITED to share this one with you!!

We've made really gorgeous trivets and coasters, using just pipe cleaners and yarn!!

They're super-easy to make because there's no stitching involved at all.

You have to see them! They look like they're store-bought.

And they're literally just pipe cleaners wrapped in yarn. How cool is that?

What a terrific homemade gift for kids to make for parents and grandparents.

Click the link below to check them out! GO! GO!

The post Easy Homemade Trivets with Pipe Cleaners and Yarn appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Ok, you have to check these out, Lovely.

We tried "printmaking" and we just used a styrofoam produce tray (from the grocery store) and a paint roller.

I can't believe how flipping awesome the process and results were.

I want to make all of my holiday cards this way now!

SUPER-fun and preschoolers can do this just as easily as teens!

Click the link below and do this with your kids this week!! xx

The post Styrofoam Printmaking for Kids (Block Printing) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Ok! I think this might be my favourite Valentines craft EVER, and you know what's awesome? Any age can make it. My tweens and teens LOVED it, but preschoolers will too!

We made these cardboard Valentines cookies today, and oh my gosh! They look so real! They look just like fancy bake shop Valentines cookies, and they were SO easy to make!

Super-easy to prep, a ton of fun (it kept my gang busy for over an hour), and such a great creative process!

Click the link below to check them out! Go! Go!

The post Cardboard Valentines Cookie Craft for All Ages appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If your older kids are crafting for Valentines this week, they'll love making these pretty heart ornaments.

I stumbled upon this process accidentally when I was playing around with pipe cleaners and yarn this weekend, and now I'm obsessed!

These hearts are so simple but so pretty. Hang them individually or string them into a mobile.

Click the link below to check them out.

The post Yarn-Wrapped Pipe Cleaner Heart Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have the sweetest craft to share with you today. Your kids can make these, but you might want to make them too!

They're "worry stones" with a heart painted on the front and a loving message printed on the back.

They're wonderful to make for kids who struggle with separation anxiety, worries and stress.

They can carry them in their pocket and give it a squeeze when they're missing their parents or when they're upset.

They were so fun and easy to make, and they look just darling.

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Painted Heart Worry Stones for Kids with Separation Anxiety appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I'm sharing our first Valentines craft of the season, and it's so fun and pretty!

We're doing "string art" (heart shaped, of course), but there's no need for wood, nails or tacks.

Kids can learn the basics of making string art designs using just cardboard and string or fine yarn.

Click the link below to check out the designs we made. They're so pretty!

The post Cardboard Heart String Art appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Printable Kindness Calendar for February appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I hope your week is off to a good start!

This one is for kids who love to craft and weave with yarn.

Because we've done so many weaving crafts this past year, I've put them all into one post so they're easy for you to find.

Your kids will have so much fun with these! From traditional loom weaving to circle weaving to weaving on CDs and drinking straws, there are plenty of projects here to keep them busy this winter!

Enjoy!! (And stay warm! xx)

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Weaving Projects for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

All you need is 3 drinking straws and some scraps of yarn, and your kids can make bookmarks, headbands, bracelets and necklaces.

This is probably the easiest weaving activity we've done yet, and it's SO COOL!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Straw Weaving (Weaving on Drinking Straws) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If your older kids are looking for something cool to do after school this week, this is super!

My hooligans love weaving, and recently, we tried paper plate bowl weaving. All you need is a paper plate and some yarn to make a colourful woven bowl to store trinkets and treasures in.

The process is a bit addictive, so they might want to make a bunch!

It's a great way to keep them entertained and learning and a super way to use up some yarn scraps!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Paper Plate Woven Bowls appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

You just prep the colourful hands the night before, and in the morning, set your kids up with a dish of salt and some scoops.

Let the fun and learning begin!

The post Salt and Ice Activity – Melting Frozen Hands appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

A bit of a different post today, as I'm working on a series of posts about common parenting challenges.

If your child, or one of your daycare children hate the car seat, you know how stressful driving anywhere can be.

I polled our HH Facebook community for advice on the situation, and received tons of great tips and solutions.

If you have a child who hates the car seat (or know someone else who does), please check out (and share) this post. :)

Click the link below to read it in full.

The post What to Do When Your Child Hates the Car Seat appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you over-indulged over the holidays like I did, and are watching what you eat, these cookies will satisfy your sweet-tooth without making you feel guilty.

They're super-easy to make too!

Click the link below for the recipe!

The post Sesame and Flax Seed Cookies appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

They were SO easy to make, and oh my gosh, they look yummy enough to eat!

I keep doing a double take because they're sitting on my counter, and they look like real cookies!

Click the link below to check them out!

And MERRY CHRISTMAS, Lovely! Thank you for following along with us. It means so much to me that you do, and that you enjoy our crafts and activities so much. xx

The post Cardboard Sugar Cookie Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have another quick and easy Christmas craft for you today!

If your kids are making homemade cards, you have to check out this ADORABLE button snowman card.

It's so easy - you can make it in under 5 minutes. And if you're anything like me, you won't be able to resist making a stash to keep on hand for yourself.

They're SO SWEET!

Click the link below to check them out! xx

The post Homemade Button Snowman Christmas Card appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

These glittered ornaments are perfect for tweens and teens to make, and even crafty grown-ups too.

If you have an aversion to glitter, don't worry. The glitter is contained! You might not want to try this one with toddlers or preschoolers though. It could get messy.

Click the link below how absolutely beautiful they are!

The post Easy DIY Glitter Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Mason Jar Lid Wreath – with Ribbons and Buttons appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

One week to go until the big day!

Ok, Christmas crafting doesn't get any easier than this.

These snowman bellies are so simple to make, so they're great if you're running short on time, but the kids want to get one more ornament made before Christmas!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Easy Snowman Belly Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Oh my gosh. I really hope you don't hate me for sharing so many posts with you recently.

We've just made so many crazy-adorable Christmas crafts and I so want to get them all out to you before Christmas arrives.

I promise, we will start earlier next year so I can space them out better!

Anyway, our latest is these super-easy, super-cute reindeer ornaments made from plastic Easter eggs!

If you have a stash of those dollar store eggs hidden away somewhere, dig them out. These reindeer are so fun and easy to make!

Click the link below to see them!

The post Plastic Egg Reindeer Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Oh my gosh. We are just killing it when it comes to totally ADORABLE Christmas crafts this year.

And they're so stinkin' easy!

Look at these popcorn Santas and tell me they're not the sweetest thing ever!

They only took about 15 minutes to make.

And... the popcorn not only provides a sensory experience for the kids, it gives them something to snack on while crafting!

Click the link below to check them out! xx

The post Paper Plate Popcorn Santa Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Ok! You have to see these! They're the cutest ornaments ever!

I had the older hooligans over for a craft day yesterday, and we made a ton of great stuff, but these gnome ornaments were our absolute favourite!

They're so simple to make, but oh my gosh! They're so sweet!

I hope your gang loves making them as much as we did!

Just click the link below to check them out! xo

The post Easy Gnome Ornament for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I'm striving to share one new Christmas craft per day with you this month, and here's our latest!

It's another super-easy initial ornament that your kids can make today.

Keep them as simple as you like, or get creative with your paint techniques like some of my gang did to create a really unique personalized ornament for the tree!

Hope your hooligans enjoy this one as much as we did!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Painted Cardboard Initial Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We made these self-portrait ornaments recently, and I can't get over how ADORABLE they are.

I mean, look at them. Are they not the sweetest things you've ever seen?

They were SUPER-simple to make too! All you need is a styrofoam ball, paint and some yarn.

TOO CUTE! Click the link below to check them out. x

The post Self-Portrait Ornaments (with Styrofoam Balls) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have another adorable Christmas ornament for your kids to make today.

It's SUPER-easy and requires very little prep or clean up!

These pretty initial ornaments are made with just cardboard, yarn and buttons.

They're great for strengthening fine motor skills and co-ordination, and a super way to use up some scrap balls of yarn!

The post Yarn-Wrapped Cardboard Initial Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have a really quick and easy Christmas craft to share with you today.

It's gorgeous and it's virtually mess-free!

All ages will love this one! They really do look like stained glass. They're truly beautiful!

Hope your kids can have fun with this one today! Click the link below to check them out. xo

The post Sharpie and Tinfoil “Stained Glass” Christmas Trees appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

They're perfect for home or the classroom and there's something here for every age, toddler through tween.

Click the link below to see them all!

The post Gingerbread Crafts for Kids (Non-Candy Ideas) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Just wanted you to know that I've rounded up all of our REINDEER crafts, and put them all into one post for you.

They're all easy and super-adorable, and there's something here for all age groups.

Hopefully your hooligans can have some fun with making these this week. :)

Click the link below to check 'em out!

The post 10 Easy Reindeer Crafts for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I've been dying to make these for ages, and the kids and I finally made a bunch.

You can hang them on the Christmas tree or use them as table toppers!

I'm making one to put at each plate at our Family Christmas dinner, so everyone can take one home with them.

They're absolutely beautiful! And they're SUPER-EASY to make!

Click the link below to check them out! xx

The post Easy Button Christmas Tree Ornaments & Table Toppers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Just a quick but adorable craft to share with you today!

This cork snowman ornament is wonderful to give along with a bottle of wine!

Just slip it over the neck of the bottle, and voila... the recipient of your gift gets a Christmas tree decoration along with their bottle of wine!

They're SO CUTE!

Click the link below to see how to make them!

The post Wine Cork Snowman Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

All you need is a piece of cardboard and a shoelace (or even a piece of yarn), and your kids can practice tying a shoe anywhere, any time, without having to actually put their shoes on!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post DIY Shoe Tying Practice Board appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I've been baking for Christmas, and today, I'm sharing one of my all-time FAVOURITE things to make (and eat) at Christmas!

If you caught our convo on Facebook last night, I discovered that this is super-popular in Canada, but no-one in the U.S. has ever heard of it.

CRAZY! It's no-bake, it's just 4 ingredients (although I like to add Rice Krispies for some crunch), and it's SO DELICIOUS!

It freezes well too, so click the link below to get over to the blog and check it out!

The post No-Bake Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares (Confetti Squares) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have the cutest (and easiest!) homemade ornament to share with you today!

Grab some jar lids and some photos of your child, and make these keepsake ornaments to make for your Christmas tree or to give as gifts.

I still cherish the ones my boys made when they were little. They're SO CUTE!

Check them out with the link below!

The post Mason Jar Lid Photo Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

These cookies are literally the BEST homemade chocolate chip cookies ever. I kid you not.

And... you make them with melted butter, so you can make them whenever you want without having to wait for your butter to soften.

They've become my family's all-time favourite chocolate chip cookie!

The post The Best Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you have kids who love LEGO, my friend Sarah, just released her 4th LEGO book featuring 25 space-themed projects your kids can build WITH BRICKS THEY ALREADY HAVE!

And each project is accompanied by an adventure story that kids can expand on with their own imaginations!

For less than the price of a new LEGO set, your kids can make 25 projects the bricks they already own!

Check it out with the link below!

The post Incredible LEGO Creations from Space with Bricks You Already Have! appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I hope your week is off to a good start!

I'm so excited! We kicked off our Christmas crafting season Friday, and we made a bunch of really easy, terrific ornaments, so I'll be sharing those with you in the coming days.

I'm starting with this completely adorable Cardboard Gingerbread Man. My older hooligans made these, but they're simple enough for toddlers and preschoolers to make too.

Check them out with the link below. They're SOOO cute!!

The post Cardboard Gingerbread Man Ornament (with Printable Template) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We're weaving on sticks (yes, just sticks found in the yard).

Check out our gorgeous designs!

The post Stick Weaving – Weaving on a Y-Shaped Stick appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

These easy cardboard roll candles are GORGEOUS!

They're really fun and easy for all ages to make too. Even my tweens LOVED this craft.

Grab some paint, tissue paper and paper towel rolls. These look beautiful displayed on a window, mantle or table top!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Cardboard Roll Christmas Candle Craft for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you're looking for a fun way to count down the days to Christmas with your kids, but you find the Elf on the Shelf thing a little creepy, you'll love these ideas!

I have 7 fab alternatives to Elf on the Shelf that make the month of December fun and meaningful for your family and none of them require that little elf.

In particular, I love #7. It's what I did for years with my boys, and they still talk about how exciting and special it was. Bonus: it really helps kids who can't handle the anxiety of waiting in those last few days before Christmas.

Click the link below to check them all out!

The post 7 Cute Alternatives to the Elf on the Shelf appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I've rounded up 14 of our favourite ways to play in the leaves and to craft with them too.

I've broken the list into 3 sections - toddler/preschooler leaf crafts, fun ways to play in the leaves, and crafts for 5-10 year olds.

I hope you'll find a few ideas here to try with your kids and students this fall!

Click the link below to see them all.

The post Fall Leaf Crafts and Activities for Kids 2-10 appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I wanted to share our latest "Learn To Sew" activity with you today. So fun!!

It's easy enough that preschoolers can have a go, but my older kids really loved it too.

Grab some styrofoam produce trays and get ready for some colourful and creative fun!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Beginner Sewing Activity (with Styrofoam Produce Trays) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Finally getting back into the swing of things now that summer vacation is over! I hope you had a terrific summer!

I wanted to share this simple idea for pretend play with you.

I made these pretend paint palettes for my toddlers and preschoolers, and I can't tell you how much they love them.

They were so easy to make, and they provide hours of open-ended, imaginative, creative play.

They're a must-have for any play room or classroom!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Pretend Paint Palette for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I don't know about your kids, but my hooligans LOVE using Sharpie markers.

We have a huge collection of them, with every colour in the rainbow, so I love to come up with really creative ways for us to use them.

We've ton a ton of cool Sharpie projects over the years, so I thought I'd put them all together for you here in one spot.

You'll find ideas for toddlers and preschoolers as well as projects for older kids.

I hope you enjoy them as much as we do!

The post 20+ Sharpie Art Projects for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Here's another easy and adorable robin craft for your toddlers and preschoolers to make this week!

This one is a paper plate robin. It's so simple, but so stinking' cute!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Paper Plate Robin Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post “A Nest Full of Eggs” Craft for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I'm sharing our favourite bread machine recipes today.

These are the ones I've made over and over for years because they're SO DARN GOOD!

Dinner rolls (OMG - THE BEST!), cinnamon rolls, honey oat bread and banana chocolate chip bread.

They're favourites at our house, and I hope they will be at yours too!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Best Bread Machine Recipes for Your Bread Maker appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's really fun and easy (all you need is paper towel and some watercolours), and kids of all ages will have fun with the process.

Perfect for a "COOL" dad!

Check it out with the link below!

The post Popsicle Father’s Day Card for the Coolest Dad appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We made these folded paper bow tie cards last week, and they're ADORABLE!

We even painted the paper with our own colours and patterns because we didn't have any patterned scrapbook paper. It worked so well!

I think the Dads are going to love these!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Bow Tie Father’s Day Card appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's great if you've been observing robins in your yard or if you're doing a lesson on birds.

Your kids will love how you can tap the robins and make them rock back and forth.

All you need is paper, tissue paper and googly eyes.

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Rockin’ Robin Craft for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Well, we are STILL waiting for the weather to warm up here, so we haven't seen many butterflies in the garden yet.

However, we're always up for a colourful butterfly craft.

I've rounded up 10 of our favourite butterfly crafts, art activities and even a snack for you. You can find them all here in this post.

There's something for all ages - toddlers, preschoolers, elementary kids and tweens.

I hope your kids love making them as much as we did!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Butterfly Crafts for Kids of All Ages appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you're wondering how to start a toddler library for your home or daycare, and not sure what books to start off with, you'll want to check this post out.

The HH Facebook community shared their tips and advice, as well as must-have titles and authors that you'll want to include in your child's first library.

Click the link below to check it out!

The post How to Start a Toddler’s Library – Tips, Titles and Authors appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We've used our easy 3-ingredient clay dough recipe to make vibrant butterfly ornaments for spring.

This might be my favourite clay dough craft yet!

Click the link below to see them. They're GORGEOUS!

The post Vibrant Clay Dough Butterfly Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Holy Moly, it's a long time coming for us this year. It's just so cold and damp!

To lift the spirits, here's a really easy butterfly craft that's perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.

It's colourful, it provides a fun little art experience, and it's great for fine motor development.

Plus, could a butterfly be ANY cuter??

Click the link below to check this one out!

The post Tissue Paper Clothespin Butterflies appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We're shifting right into Father's Day crafting now, and I wanted to share one of our favourite Father's Day cards.

We used fabric scraps and buttons to put a spin on the classic paper shirt and tie card.

It's super-cute and really easy to make.

Just click the link below to check it out!

The post Adorable Shirt and Tie Father’s Day Card {With Fabric Necktie} appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you have kids looking for some last minute, homemade Mother's Day card ideas, I've put together our very favourites here.

They're all easy but really fun and creative ideas, and there's something here for all age groups.

Click the link below to check them out.

The post 4 Homemade Mother’s Day Cards for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The flowers are so fun and easy to make, and they look so pretty!

Click the link below to have a look!

The post Paper Mums – Mother’s Day Card for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Transform an empty wine bottle into a gorgeous candle holder with tissue paper decoupage!

This one is great for all ages from toddlers right through to teens!

It's so fun and easy!!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Wine Bottle Candle Holder – Tissue Paper Decoupage Craft for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have the sweetest craft to share with you today, and all your kids will need are some toilet rolls (or paper towel rolls), fabric scraps and yarn.

My gang had so much fun making these.

Check out this adorable little family!

The post Cardboard Roll Dolls with Fabric and Yarn Scraps appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Sandbox Ideas – Toy Suggestions, Play Ideas and Storage Solutions appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Father's Day is coming up, so I wanted to get this out to you early.

I've rounded up all of the best Father's Day gifts we've made over the years, plus a few awesome homemade cards and I've put them here in one post for you.

Click the link below to check 'em out!

The post 12 Homemade Father’s Day Gifts that Kids can Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Just wanted to let you know I've rounded up all of my homemade doll posts and put them in one post. :)

So if you have crafty kids who love dolls, you'll want to check it out.

There's something for all ages from toddlers to tweens, and they're all good for keeping the kids entertained at the craft table. Plus, they can play with them when they're finished.

They're all adorable too!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Fun and Easy Doll Crafts for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The hooligans love this art process! It's great for toddlers, preschoolers and older kids too.

They're super-easy to make, but soooo cute!

If you're looking for a unique and creative homemade card for your kids or students to make this Mother's Day, you have to check this one out!

Just click the link below!

The post Tie-Dye Dress Mother’s Day Card for Kids (With Printable) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Just wanted to share one of my all-time favourite spring crafts for toddlers and preschoolers with you.

These paper plate flowers make me so happy! They're so cheery.

Young children will love the process - colour blending, cutting and gluing - and no matter what, the results will be adorable.

Click the link below to check them out! I hope you think they're sweet too!

The post Easy Paper Plate Flower Craft for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Easy Buttermilk-Rhubarb Muffins with Sugar Crumble Topping appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I'm so excited to show you our latest and greatest craft!

We turned a bunch of old CDs into gorgeous dream catchers, and they were so fun to make!

They'll look beautiful hanging in the kids' bedrooms, and they're great for kids who struggle with worries and anxiety at bedtime.

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Woven CD Dream Catcher Craft for Tweens and Teens appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have one last Easter craft to share with you this season, and it's GORGEOUS!

We used our 3-ingredient white clay recipe (It's awesome!) to make these beautiful painted clay dough Easter egg ornaments.

The kids loved decorating them!

They'd be perfect to hang on an Easter tree, but they'd make great gifts too. Maybe one at everyone's place setting at the Easter table?

Goodness, I just love them. They were so fun and easy to make!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Painted Clay Dough Easter Egg Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I picked up some blank jigsaw puzzles and the kids designed and decorated their own personalized interlocking jigsaw puzzles!

This was such a fun activity, and the kids are keeping their puzzles for themselves, but wouldn't this be fun for kids to make together for a friend or grandparent?

Great gift idea for a crafty kid too!

Click the link below to check them out!

What a fun activity.

The post DIY Jigsaw Puzzles – A Fun Art Activity for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I am SO excited to share our latest Easter craft with you!

We painted plastic dollar store eggs and the results are GORGEOUS!

You have to make these with your kids this year!

Check out how beautiful they are! Go! Go!

The post Painted Plastic Easter Eggs appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have the most adorable little craft to show you today!

Worry Dolls! I'm so excited to show them to you! They're SO STINKIN' CUTE!

I had a set of these when I was a kid, and I've always wanted to make them with the hooligans.

We finally got around to doing it the other day, and Oh. My. Gosh! They're just precious!

And super-easy too!

Cllck the link below to check them out! GO! GO!

The post Homemade Worry Dolls for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Here's a super-quick and easy craft that all ages will enjoy.

Paddle Puppets!

Your kids can turn a piece of cardboard into a self-portrait puppet, or an animal or anything at all, really! They can even make them 2-sided to have 2 puppets in one!

They're great for pretend play, role play and putting on puppet shows!

Super-fun and super-fun!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Homemade Paddle Puppet Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Painted Wine Bottles for Watering Indoor Plants – Mother’s Day Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I'm super-excited to show you our latest project!!

Your kids are going to love it because it's fun, easy, and they can make some truly GORGEOUS projects!

We'll show you how to make a cardboard weaving loom and how to weave a project start to finish, so your kids can make wall art, pot holder, trivets and coasters etc.

If you enjoyed circle weaving as a kid, you'll love this throw-back, and if you've never tried it, you HAVE to!

Click the link below to check out how beautiful it is! GO! GO!

The post Easy Cardboard Circle Weaving for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I am SO stoked to show you this super-cool, super STUNNING project we made for Father's Day!

We made paper weights, but not just ANY paper weights...

We used a "pour painting" technique that is out. of. this. world.

It's totally easy and totally fascinating. I'm not kidding. Your results will "wow" you right into next week.

Check it out! Check it out!

The post Pour Painting on Rocks – Homemade Paperweight Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I am in love with our latest Easter craft.

It's super-simple, super-gorgeous, and it's great for all ages. Totally do-able for toddlers and preschoolers, but even my 11 and 12 year old LOVED it!

Oh, and, you probably have everything you need on hand already. :)

Check it out!! Isn't it pretty?

The post Crumpled Tissue Paper Easter Egg Craft for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It was my husband's birthday (St. Patrick's Day), so we were busy celebrating that, but I sat down late last night and put together this little round up for you.

With St. Patrick's Day over, a lot of you will be moving on to Easter crafting, or at least planning for it, so I rounded up a bunch of our all time favourite Easter crafts so you'd have them all in one spot

Be sure to pin it so you have it handy for later, and feel free to use the Facebook share button at the top of the page so your parent and teacher friends will see it too.

Click the link below to check them all out! x

The post Fabulous Easter Egg Crafts for Kids for Toddlers to Tweens appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have such a beautiful craft to share with you today!

Young kids will love it, but if you have tweens and teens that love to craft, they're definitely going to want to see this one too.

It's a great way for kids to personalize their space in their bedroom or playroom, and it's a fab gift for older kids who like to make homemade gifts for their friends.

Click the link below to see how easy they are to make, and how gorgeous they are!

The post Yarn-Wrapped Cardboard Letters for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The post Marbleized Easter Eggs with Oil, Vinegar and Food Colouring appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have a really easy art activity for your kids to do this week. It's so much fun, and the results are so pretty that we framed ours.

Kids love making art using this process, and all ages can do it. Tweens and teens will love it just as much as the toddlers and preschoolers do.

It's super-easy to prepare and virtually mess-free.

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Resist Art with Pastels and Watercolors (Stained Glass Doodles) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

What a great craft for all ages. Even grown-ups will enjoy them.

These painted rock Easter eggs were so fun and easy to make!

All you need are some rocks and paint, and just look at how gorgeous they turned out

Wouldn't these be pretty displayed in a basket or scattered on your Easter dinner table?

Click the link below to check them out, and make some with your kids this Easter!

The post Painted Rock Easter Egg Craft for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

This is something we've been wanting to try for a while! The hooligans LOVED it!

If you have older kids, you have to give it a try. They can make so many cool things and it's so fun and easy!

All you need is a piece of cardboard and some scraps of yarn!

CLICK the link below to check it out!

The post Cardboard Loom Weaving Activity for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's so simple, but the materials offer a lovely tactile experience, and oh my goodness, the results are ADORABLE.

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Paper Plate Garden Craft for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

All of these crafts and playful learning activities are really easy and inexpensive, and they are just fabulous!

Take a peek! You'll definitely want to put some of these on your "must make and do" list for spring!

Check 'em out!

The post 25 Flower Crafts and Activities for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I've rounded up 8 of our favourites here.

Some are great for toddlers and preschoolers, and others will be big hits with the older kids.

They're all great for home, preschool, daycare and the classroom.

I hope your kids love doing these as much as my hooligans did!

The link is below. Give it a click to see them all!

The post 8 Self Portrait Crafts for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Have you heard about Chuck E. Cheese's new "All You Can Play" birthday party packages?

Your kids won't run out of tokens! They get to play all the games they want for the duration of your party.

You can see how our party went in the link below. You have to love that they do everything for you, from the invites and balloons to the food, cake, and loot bags.

And you can book the whole thing online in a matter of seconds.

Talks about a stress-free party! Click the link below to get the details!

The post Stress-Free “All You Can Play” Birthday Party at Chuck E. Cheese’s appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

All ages will enjoy this one. Pre-tweens and tweens love it as much as the toddlers and preschoolers do.

It's a great way to repurpose your stash of tissue paper, and you have to agree, it's a really gorgeous craft!

Click the link below to check it out! Have fun and from our house to yours, have a very happy Valentine's Day!

The post Tissue Paper Valentine’s Hearts appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

With 2 simple folds, you can make these paper fortune cookies in a few seconds. (I've included another step-by-step video in the post for you). :)

Use some fancy paper or have the kids decorate plain paper beforehand to make them extra special.

Aren't they just the CUTEST?! Click the link below to check them out!

The post Valentines Paper Fortune Cookies for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

These folded 3-D hearts are so fun and easy to make!

Plus, look how beautiful they are!

Have the kids make a bunch to give to friends on Valentine's Day! Click the link below to check them out!

The post Easy Folded Paper Heart Craft for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I just wanted to share our latest Valentines post with you! You have to check it out. It's gorgeous!

We made these tissue paper roses the other day, and I'm in LOVE with them! I have a little vase of them sitting on my desk, and they look so real.

So sweet for kids to give to Mom for Valentine's Day!

Plus.... I made another VIDEO to show you how to make them. YAY! I'm really loving making these step-by-step videos for the instructional posts. I feel like I'm connecting with you in an entirely different way.

I hope you'll check it out! Just click on the link below!

The post Easy Tissue Paper Rose Craft for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The post Milk Carton Valentines Houses for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The post Sharpie and Alcohol Valentines Craft For Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We've used our infamous 2-ingredient white clay dough to make these dazzling Valentines ornaments! I just LOVE how they sparkle and shine! And the colours... oh my WORD! They're gorgeous!

I love this clay dough so much. It's SO easy to make! It's just baking soda and corn flour, so it dries to this brilliant, bright white which looks stunning with the sparkly colours we've topped them with! Have a look! Aren't they just beautiful?

The post Glittered Heart Valentines Ornaments with Homemade Clay Dough appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Not only are they great for toddlers and preschoolers, you can use them as a teaching tool for older kids too. And hello... they're so easy to make.

My gang has shown a keen interest in sewing lately, so I used these homemade lacing cards to teach them 4 basic sewing stitches.

They loved them!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Homemade Mitten Lacing Cards appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Remember spool knitting when you were a kid?

It's the same thing, but we're doing it with a toilet roll tube!

It's so fun and the projects knit up quickly!

Click the link below to check out the awesome bracelets the hooligans made the other day!

I've made another video tutorial to go along with it too! It's in the post. :)

The post French Knitting for Kids (with a Toilet Roll Loom) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Preschoolers can practice forming letters, numbers and writing their name, while older kids can work on strengthening their writing skills and practicing spelling and sight words.

It's super simple to set up, and what a wonderful sensory experience!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Shaving Cream Writing Tray for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

They look just like real roses. They're gorgeous!

Kids can make them to give them individually for Valentines Day, or they can give a whole bouquet.

This is, hands-down, one of my favourite flower crafts ever!

Check it out with the link below! Go! Go!

Wouldn't these be beautiful for kids to make and give as a gift to Moms, Grandmas, teachers etc.

They're really easy to make, and they last forever! And they really do look like real roses!

Beautiful!

Click the link below to see them!

The post Paper Towel Roses For Kids To Make And Give appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

But not your ordinary snowflakes.

Nooo, these are gorgeous woven snowflakes decked out in shimmering gems and sequins.

They're just so pretty!

Make a bunch for the Christmas tree or hang them in a window.

Your kids will love the process. Wouldn't these look beautiful hanging in your home or classroom?

Check the out with the link below!

The post Woven Craft Stick Snowflake Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Colouring the Snow – Indoor Winter Activity for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

They LOVE exploring snow without being all bundled up in coats and mitts.

It's such a terrific sensory activity, and so easy to set up!

Keep this in mind the next time it's too cold to get outdoors with your gang!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post How to Make a Snow Sensory Bin When it’s Too Cold to Play Outside! appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

This mitten matching activity is really easy to make, and it's great great for helping toddlers and preschoolers develop their matching skills and their fine motor skills.

My 2 and 3 year olds LOVE matching the colours and patterns and pinning the little mitts together with mini clothespins.

This will be an activity that your kids will go to time and time again this winter.

Click the link below to check it out.

The post Homemade Mitten Matching Activity for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's a fun activity for kids of all ages. The whole family can get in on the action.

And it's totally easy to prep!

Check out the photos in the link below to see how gorgeous our sculptures are!

The post Coloured Ice Sculptures in the Snow appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

You only need a few supplies to set this up, and the kids can go back to it day after day. My guys LOVE it!

It's great for developing fine motor skills and creativity, and the kids just love playing with these plastic gem stones.

This is one of those activities that I make available to the kids all winter long in my daycare.

Check it out with the link below. Your little ones will love it!

The post Building Snowflakes on a Mirror – Fun Indoor Winter Activity for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Snow Painting Activity – Outdoor Winter Art Activity for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bundt Cake – Moist and Easy Recipe appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

if you have mason jar lids and some ribbon and tissue paper scraps, you've got this covered.

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Mason Jar Lid Snowman Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

They're so simple to make, so your kids can do this one before Christmas, or you can wait until after Christmas and make them all winter long.

Hope you love them too! Click the link below to check them out!

The post Colourful Paper Doily Snowflakes for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

You just need a few cookie cutters to turn an ordinary french toast lunch into a fun winter-themed lunch.

And my french toast recipe is the best. The milk to egg ratio is perfect so your french toast will be crispy and golden-brown every time.

Kids love the little shapes. They're just right for dipping in syrup - no forks or knives necessary.

Pair it with fresh fruit and yogurt, and you have a perfectly nutritious and delicious lunch to serve the kids on a snowy day.

Click the link below to get the details.

The post Snow Day French Toast – Fun and Delicious Winter-Themed Lunch for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post 25 {Irresistibly Adorable} Snowman Crafts, Activities and Treats appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Just thought i'd pop in with another quick and easy wine cork craft.

These look sweet on the Christmas tree, and like our wine cork angels, they're a cute little add-on if you're giving a bottle of wine as a hostess gift over the holidays.

Just drape your little reindeer over the neck of the bottle of wine, and your recipient gets a cute handmade ornament along with their wine.

These guys are pretty darn cute, and you can set your 5+ aged kids up to make a bunch of these for you!

Click the link below to check them out.

The post Wine Cork Reindeer Ornament Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I thought I'd sneak in this quick and easy reindeer craft even though Christmas is already here. It's just too cute to not share.

If your kids are looking to get crafty over the holiday break, set them up with this simple craft!

The cuteness factor is over the top!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Mason Jar Lid Reindeer Ornament for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I hope you've been enjoying our daily Christmas craft this month.

I have another really easy one to share with you today. It's great for last-minute Christmas crafting sessions because it's really easy to make.

These ribbon scrap Christmas trees are perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. They'll love exploring ribbon colours, textures and patterns, and painting is always fun.

Click the link below to check them out.

The post No-Tie Ribbon Christmas Tree Craft for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The countdown is on! If you have time left or some Christmas crafting, this angel ornament is super-quick and easy to make, and super-cute too.

It's virtually no-mess, so if you're looking for a last minute Christmas ornament to make with the kids this week, this one is winner!

Click the link below to check it out.

The post Easy Coffee Filter Angel Craft and Ornament For Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

My son made one of these adorable reindeer for me when he was in kindergarten 15 years ago. It's still one of my favourite ornaments to hang on the tree every year.

Makes a cute gift-topper too!

Click the link below to check out how cute they are!

The post Christmas Bulb Reindeer Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Here's another super-simple ornament for your kids to make.

It's a spin-off of the glittered sheet music stars we made the other day, but it's even easier.

This one is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers because there's no loose glitter involved.

They're still really pretty though! Click the link below to check them out.

The post Cookie Cutter Sheet Music Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Clear Ornament Crafts for Glass or Plastic Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Wine Cork Angel Ornament (Great to Give with a Bottle of Wine) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you saw our doily Christmas tree cards the other day, we've used a similar idea for these angel cards.

We've used some materials that add a bit of sensory fun to making this card though, and they give our angels a 3-D effect on the front of the card.

Not to mention, they're just so darn precious!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Doily Angel Christmas Card with Flower Petal Angel Wings appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

This might be our cutest Christmas ornament yet, and it's quite possibly our easiest too!

I can't even believe how gorgeous these lollies turned out!! All you need is cardboard paint and a lolly stick.

This one is easy enough for toddlers to do, but older kids can get really creative with it.

Just look at how beautiful ours turned out! Go! Go!

The post Easy Painted Lollipop Ornament for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's just 2 supplies, and so simple, but it will keep your little ones learning, engaged and busy for quite a while.

It's great for strengthening fine motor skills and eye-hand co-ordination and my goodness, they look beautiful hanging on the Christmas tree!

Click the link below to see how pretty they are!

The post Pipe Cleaner Icicle Ornaments for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I hope you're ok with me providing you with these daily crafts this month! We always shoot for one ornament per day from December 1 -24th, so hopefully we're inspiring you to do the same.

I like to keep them easy so they're totally do-able - minimal supplies, minimal mess, and this one is a winner.

Great for fine motor development, and look how gorgeous it is!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Yarn and Twig Star Ornaments for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have another absolutely adorable and super-easy ornament for your kids to make!

All ages can make this one, and if you're not a fan of glitter, no worries - just use glitter glue instead.

All you need is a piece of cardboard and some sheet music (I've included a link so you can print some off).

Look how pretty these are!

The post Easy Sheet Music Star Ornaments for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We made these using cookie cutters and our easy 3-ingredient clay dough recipe.

I think these might be our prettiest ornaments so far this year!

Click the link below to see how gorgeous they are!

The post Cookie Cutter Christmas Ornaments for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Christmas Sprinkles Writing Tray Activity for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I made dozens a few years ago, and gave sets of them as gifts to teachers, neighbours etc.

They're great for kids to make for the Christmas tree too.

All you need is a piece of cardboard and some yarn!

Aren't they sweet?

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Easy Yarn Wrapped Star Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I've rounded up a few of our very favourites from recent years.

They're all easy and totally adorable, and provide the kids with an opportunity to get creative.

You likely have all the supplies you need on hand already.

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Homemade Christmas Cards for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Just wanted to share the adorable Christmas cards the kids made for their parents the other day.

They're super-sweet and really easy to make.

My older kids loved making them, but they're simple enough for toddlers and preschoolers to make too.

Minimal supplies required!

Click the link below to have a look!

The post Doily Christmas Tree Cards for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

You have to check out the adorable sheep ornaments we made the other day.

I've had this craft on our must-make list for years, and we finally got around to doing it.

The kids loved making their sheep and the process provided a nice sensory experience too.

Check them out with the link below. They're so stinkin' cute!

The post Adorable Sheep Ornament Craft for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Honest to goodness. How sweet are these going to look hanging on the Christmas tree?

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Twig and Yarn Christmas Tree Ornaments for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Ok. You have to see the absolutely adorable angel ornaments we made this past weekend.

The inspiration for these was a little ornament my son gave me when he was 4.

Honestly, this is, hands-down, one of the sweetest ornaments we've ever made.

And it was easy!

Click the link below to check them out! x

The post Seashell Angel Ornament for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Just wait til you see this one.

I've rounded up 16 of our cutest-ever craft stick ornaments, and put them all in one post.

These ornaments are perfect for the Christmas tree, and great for all age groups so you'll want to check them out.

Be warned though. They're ridiculously cute! From the ballerina to the Santa and helpers to the ninjas and the nutcrackers, they're all just adorable.

Oh, and if you have boys who tend to be a little reluctant to come to the craft table, there are 3 in here that will appeal to them!

Check them out through the link below. Enjoy!

The post 16+ Popsicle Stick Crafts for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

You have to see our latest!

These were SO easy to make and they're SO pretty!

The kids are going to display these table toppers on their Christmas dinner table this year, but wouldn't they look gorgeous on a mantel or window sill too?

Click the link below to check them out! Don't you love it when crafting is THIS easy and THIS pretty?

The post Styrofoam Christmas Tree Table Toppers for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The post How to Make Paper Candy Canes appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

This is such a great craft for kids to do when there's not a lot of time, or when you don't want a lot of mess.

Just a few simple supplies and a few minutes, and BAM, you've got the cutest little ornaments to hang on the Christmas tree!

Click the link below to check them out. Warning: cuteness overload ahead. Hee hee!

The post Popsicle Stick Gingerbread Man – Ornaments for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Pipe Cleaner and Button Wreath Ornament for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

This 3-ingredient clay dough recipe uses just baking soda, corn starch and water. It's super-easy to make, and it dries pure white.

Kids can paint their ornaments or add glitter, or press beads and gems into the dough like we did here.

You have to make these for the tree this year!

Click the link below to see them and to get the clay dough recipe!

The post White Clay Dough Ornaments for Kids to Make (2 Ingredients) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We had so much fun making our Fall Popcorn Trees we decided to use the same process to make a Christmas tree!

We added an extra step by putting some coloured "lights" on our Christmas trees.

It's a fun and easy activity, and you'll have an adorable piece of Christmas art to display in your home for the holidays.

The post Popcorn Christmas Tree Craft for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I've rounded up 21 awesome, fun and engaging nativity sets made especially with kids in mind.

They're meant to be touched and rearranged and they'll last for years! Many can double as an advent activity at home or in the classroom when you give your kids one piece per day, finishing with baby Jesus on Christmas Day.

There are so many wonderful ways for kids to learn about the true meaning of Christmas and the nativity story with the buildable sets, wooden blocks, puzzles, quiet books (and MORE!) in this collection!

The post Best Nativity Sets for Kids {They’re Made for Play!} appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We've made the cutest-ever gingerbread houses without a lick of sugar!

They're colourful, they're festive, and they're going to look terrific lining our Christmas dinner table. Your kids can make these to be the centerpiece on the kids' Christmas table as well.

I love that they look so yummy but they aren't going to harm any teeth or spoil any appetites. AND, you can make them with any old odds and ends that you have in your craft room!

Make one or two, or make a whole village to line a mantel, a windowsill or your holiday table!

Aren't they beyond adorable? Check 'em out through the link below!

The post Milk Carton Gingerbread House for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

These aprons are easy to make and the BEST for crafting and messy play.

They make a great gift for a crafty child, and they're super for a home daycare or preschool classroom.

They're durable, stain-resistant and long-lasting, and best of all, they don't cost a thing to make!

Click the link below for the easy step-by-step tutorial!

The post How to Make a Kid’s Apron from Your Old Jeans appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's just popsicle sticks and fabric scraps, but it's the cutest thing I've seen in a long time. hee hee!

Click the link below to check it out!

And stay tuned to the blog in the coming days and weeks. We'll be cranking out the Christmas crafts from now until Christmas!

The post Popsicle Stick Nativity Craft for Kids – Adorable Christmas Tree Ornament appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The post Best Books for Boys – 40+ Fantastic Reads for Boys ages 8-16 appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Yarn-Wrapped Paper Cone Christmas Tree Ornaments appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I have 30 crafts you're going to love!

They're easy. They're gorgeous. And they can be made with stuff you have around the house.

Best of all they can be enjoyed by all ages: toddlers, preschoolers and bigger kids too!

Click the link below to check them out! GO! GO!

The post 30 Easy Kids’ Christmas Ornaments to Make at Home appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Set them up with this gorgeous play dough Christmas cookie activity.

They can play with this all month long because this homemade play dough lasts for months before drying out.

My girls pretended they were baking Christmas cookies for two hours this morning!

TWO HOURS! Think of all the things you could get done!

CLICK THE LINK to check it out!

The post Christmas Cookie Play Dough Activity for Toddlers and Preschooler appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Homemade Gift Wrapping Paper with Coloured Ice Pops appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The post How to Make Borax Crystals – Icicle Ornament for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The post Christmas Tree Crafts for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

They're great for developing fine-motor skills and all you need is a styrofoam produce tray and buttons!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Styrofoam and Button Christmas Tree Ornaments for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Best Bread Machine Dinner Rolls – Bread Machine Recipe appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Years ago, when my daycare kids always wanted to touch and play with my good nativity set, I made this kid-friendly nativity set out of toilet rolls, fabric scraps and a glue gun.

What a hit!

They loved it so much, I ended up making an 8-piece set for each of them, and guess what. They still have them. They still play with them, and they're still in great shape.

It was a joy to make these sets, and the children cherish them. Not to mention, they provide hours of entertainment and imaginative play during the Christmas season!

And they're SO freaking adorable! Click the link below to see how to make a set for your kids!

The post Toilet Roll Nativity Set that Kids Can Play With appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Young children will love exploring fall colours this way, making marks and blending colours with their non-traditional "paint brushes".

This is a great art activity to do as a group, but it's excellent for individuals as well!

The post Leaf Painting – a Fall Art Activity for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Nativity Sensory Bin for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I know it can be challenging to think of theme-based activities in November what with Halloween being behind us and Christmas still being so far ahead.

I wanted to share this idea with you. It's something I do every year here in November, and I leave it set up for weeks.

The kids LOVE it! There's loads of opportunity for learning and exploring, and you can pull it all together in a few minutes, with a few dollar store items or things you already have around the house.

Click on the link below to check it out. Your kids will love it!

The post November Sensory Bin for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Starry Night Art Project for Kids – Melted Crayon Art appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Hope November is going well for you and your littles!

If you can squeeze in one more fall leaf craft, this one is a beauty.

It's one of those good old-fashioned art techniques you'll remember from your childhood and the results are so pretty! I personally think it would look lovely framed.

It's a great art activity for kids to do on their own or in your classroom for art class. :)

Hope you love it as much as we did!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Fall Leaf Scratch Art Collage for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

This reusable activity tray will keep your toddlers and preschoolers busy for hours this winter.

It's a great activity to set out for quiet time or at the beginning of your daycare day every morning.

All you need are a few odds and ends from the craft cupboard, and your kids can "build" a snowman over and over again, changing up the look every time.

It's great for fine motor skills, has a wonderful sensory element to it, and encourages constructive thinking and creativity!

Your little ones will love it!

CLICK the link below to see the details!

The post Build a Snowman Activity Tray for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We also have some exciting news about a new TVOKids series that crafty kids will love, so you'll want to check that out too!

Click the link below to get all the scoop!

The post Framed “Kindness Cloud” Craft for World Kindness Day appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The post Wax Resist Christmas Cards for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

They can all be made with basic supplies that you already have in your home or classroom.

Click the link below to check them out!

The post 6 Easy Turkey Crafts for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The post Paper Plate Poppy Craft for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I made it last weekend for a family get-together and everyone went crazy for it.

If you love pumpkin and you love creme brûlée, you'll be in heaven. A creamy pumpkin centre topped with a crunchy caramel shell. It's perfection in a dessert.

It's a wonderful alternative to pumpkin pie and it's SO EASY to make!

You have to put this on your must-make list for the holidays!

Click the link below to get the recipe and see it in all its glory!

The post Pumpkin Creme Brûlée – Easy Gluten-Free Alternative to Pumpkin Pie appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's simple to make and great for developing fine-motor skills.

Kids will love the adorable pom pom spiders, and learning basic weaving skills this way is so fun.

Click the link below to check it out.

The post Preschool Spider and Web Craft for Fine Motor Development appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post 3 Cute and Easy Spider Crafts for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

And it's SO EASY to make! If you're like me, and you've never made creme brûlée before, put your fears to bed because it seriously couldn't be any easier.

And did I mention how freaking good it is? Try it!!

Get the printable recipe by clicking the link below.

The post Espresso Creme Brûlée appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Time to bust out the tried and true homemade soup recipes.

This Lentil soup with potatoes, bacon and mixed veg is one of the easiest soups I make, and it's SO GOOD!

I've been making this soup for over 20 years, and my family never tires of it. Served with dinner rolls or homemade bread, it's a delicious and hearty lunch or dinner in winter and fall.

One of the great things about this soup is it's quick to make. You can have it on the table in under an hour.

I hope you love it as much as we do! Click the link below to get the recipe.

The post Lentil Soup with Potatoes, Bacon and Vegetables – Quick, Easy and Delicious appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Monster Handprint Craft for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's the perfect technique for making Halloween art and we have a couple of tricks that will get you the best results.

The hooligans had a blast with this project. The process is always so magical.

Bet it takes you right back to your childhood too!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Spooky Halloween Scratch Art Project for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you're looking for an amazing recipe for fall, you have to try this pumpkin chocolate chip bread!

I make it with coconut oil and swap out some of the flour for whole wheat flour.

You're free to use butter and all purpose flour if that's what you prefer. Either way, you'll love it.

It's SO GOOD (and a great way to use up a cup of pumpkin puree left over from other recipes!

Click the link below to get the recipe!

The post Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread with Whole Wheat Flour and Coconut Oil appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The 7-12 year olds in my daycare made these brushed leaf silhouettes using leaves from our yard and a dollar store canvas.

We chose fall colours for the background, but you can use whatever colours you'd like.

What a beautiful piece of long-lasting art for kids to display on a shelf or a bedroom wall!

Click the link below to see the details!

The post Brushed Leaf Silhouette Art for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

This kept the kids busy for the better part of the morning the other day. They LOVED it! It's fun for all ages, but a really great craft if you have older kids who can be a bit harder to please at the craft table.

My gang ranged in age from 6-12 on this day, and they all LOVED it!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Shoebox Dollhouse Craft for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's great to do outdoors on a warm day or indoors on a rainy day.

Kids will learn how to make predictions and observations and all about density and buoyancy.

It's guaranteed fun for the preschool crowd and so easy to set up and clean up!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Sink or Float Experiment for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Have you made Oobleck with your kids yet?

You must! It's so simple to make and it's an absolutely fascinating substance to play with.

Squeeze it and it's a solid, let it go and it transforms into a liquid. It will keep your kids entertained and learning for ages, and all you need are two ingredients found right in your kitchen!

CLICK the link below for details!

The post How to Make Oobleck for Sensory Play – an Easy 2 Ingredient Recipe appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

You know what's crazy? The number of toxic chemicals in a jug of commercial brand laundry detergent. You know what's crazier? Our babies have their little mouths and noses pressed up to clothing and bedding scented with those chemicals from the day they're born. Night and day. How can that possibly be ok? How can that be safe?

Check out my 3 ingredient Homemade Laundry Detergent recipe. It's free of toxins, you can make it in minutes, and it costs a fraction of what store-bought detergents cost. I've been using this recipe for 5 years, and I'll never go back to store-bought. I hope you'll give it a try. For your family, for the planet and for your pocket-book.

The post Best Homemade Laundry Detergent – 80 Gallons for $20 appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Check out how adorable these popcorn fall trees are!

Colouring the popcorn is really fun and easy and the results are super-cute!

My guys had a blast with this one, and I'll bet yours will too! I'll bet they've never made a craft that smells this good!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Popcorn Fall Tree Craft for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

There's virtually no set up and no clean up; all you need are chalk markers and a styrofoam produce tray.

This is perfect for those times when kids want to make a craft or get creative, but you just don't have a lot of time. And even though it's super simple, it gives them the opportunity to create, and keeps them busy for a while.

This is perfect for quiet time, or when kids are waiting to be picked up at the end of the daycare day, or just in between busy bouts of activity.

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Art with Liquid Chalk Markers and Styrofoam Produce Trays appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I know the combo sounds a little odd, but Mmmmmmm.... you have to trust me on this. Best Cookies EVER!

Click the link below for the printable recipe! GO!

The post Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We made these stunning, glittered leaf ornaments using our easy clay dough recipe. It's made with just 2 kitchen ingredients and water.

This is a wonderful fall craft for big kids, but easy enough to make with toddlers and preschoolers.

You have to try this one with your kids this fall!

They'd be perfect to display as place holders on your Thanksgiving table, or you could hang them from some small branches and display them in a vase.

I think they'd double as excellent Christmas tree ornaments too, don't you?

Quick! Go, go! Check them out through the link below, and tell me if you think they're as beautiful as I do!

The post Glittered Leaf Ornaments with 2-Ingredient Clay Dough appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We grated our broken crayons and melted them to create this gorgeous piece of fall tree.

Prepping for the process is fun - there's tin foil and painting involved, and the kids will enjoy sprinkling their crayon shavings over the painting to make their fall tree.

Watching the wax melt and set is rather mesmerizing and the results are BEAUTIFUL!

Check it out with the link below. Go! Go!

The post Amazing Fall Art with Melted Crayon Shavings appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The kids just love it too!

Leaf printing is such a creative way for kids to make art AND to learn how to identify the leaves that grow on the trees and plants in your yard.

Plus, just check out how GORGEOUS the finished prints are! They're pretty enough to hang on a wall in your home!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Leaf Printing Activity for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's super-simple, and requires just paint and paper (and feet, of course)!

Kids love having their feet painted and making prints, and they'll be delighted to turn their prints into these adorably spooky ghosts!

Click the link below to see this easy project.

The post Halloween Footprint Ghost Craft for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Textured paper and tissue paper adds a sensory element to the craft, and it's great for exploring colours and strengthening fine motor skills.

Plus, who doesn't love a handprint craft?!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Fall Tree Handprint Craft for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Here's an adorable fall craft to kick the week off for your toddlers and preschoolers.

It's really easy, and it doesn't cost a thing to make.

My hooligans had a wonderful time making these colourful fall trees, and they turned out so beautifully.

Lots of fun and exploration here - textures, colours and fine motor development.

Put it on your must-make list for fall!

Click the link below to check it out.

The post Twig and Tissue Paper Fall Tree Craft for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

You can enjoy them all year round with this quick and easy recipe!

The best part? Your kids will be able to make them with little or no assistance!

Great for after-school snacks and sleep-over parties!

Click the link below to see how to make them!

The post How to Make S’mores in the Microwave appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I'm really excited to show you these calming glitter bottles! They're so easy to make!

They're mesmerizing to play with and they're a great tool for helping preschoolers learn how to relax and regulate their emotions when they're upset, anxious or just feeling like they need a quiet moment to reflect.

I'm also super-excited to tell you about a new preschool series that airs on Saturdays on Treehouse TV. It's called Esme and Roy, and it's an adorable animated series that helps kids manage their emotions and navigate through challenging situations.

I've watched a few episodes and I just love it. I hope you'll check it out with your little ones!

Click the link below to learn more about it, and to see how to make our glitter jars.

The post Calming Glitter Jar and Calm Down Song (Inspired by “Esme & Roy”) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

These lanterns look so pretty on a patio in summertime or on a windowsill indoors. You could even use them as a night light in a child's room.

They make a great homemade gift for kids to give to parents, grandparents or teachers too!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Colourful Mason Jar Lanterns for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Well, don't worry. It will never happen again with this easy but amazing homemade crouton recipe!

You can make them in minutes with almost any kind of bread, and they're so good, you'll never buy store-bought again!

Just look at them, all golden-brown and delicious. Click the link below to get the recipe, and you can take your family's salad to a whole new level tonight!

The post How to Make Croutons (in the Oven) With Any Kind of Bread appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Head out to the yard or the neighbourhood for a nature hunt and make prints with your findings!

It's great for fine motor development, and a wonderful way for kids to explore the intricacies of flowers, leaves and other natural items.

It's fun, creative and super-easy too!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Nature Art Stamping Activity for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I love that this isn't shaped like a traditional apple craft, and the kids loved what we used for the seeds! They look so real, and they add a wonderful sensory element to the craft because they smell so great!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Paper Plate Apple Craft for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

This simple homemade countdown calendar is simple for kids to make, and it's great for helping young children visualize how many days are remaining until they go off to school.

Keep this in mind when you're counting down to other exciting events too!

Click the link below for the details!

The post Back-to-School Paper Chain Countdown Calendar appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's a homemade fishing game!

It starts with an easy art activity that has the kids making their fish (and other adorable sea creatures), and you end up with a game that the kids will love!

It's great for strengthening hand-eye coordination and concentration skills, and the kids just love it when they "make a catch"!

The post Fun and Easy Homemade Fishing Game for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The post Easy Homemade Guacamole Recipe with Fresh Avocados appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Make a set of homemade dominoes out of craft sticks! They're great for teaching little ones colour and pattern recognition and matching!

They're fun to make too. Bet your older kids would even want to get in on the "making" part!

Click the link below to see how to make 'em and how to play with them.

The post Craft Stick Dominoes that Kids can Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

We made our own custom-painted walking sticks that the kids can take on their walks around the neighbourhood and nature hikes.

The activity was a lot of fun and didn't cost a thing! This is a super activity for home, daycare or craft camp!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Painted Walking Sticks for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's a KEY LIME PIE MARTINI!

And yes. It tastes just like key lime pie in a glass.

It's rich and creamy, tart and refreshing, and everything you could ever want in a cocktail!

You have to give it a try this summer!

Click the link below to get my recipe!

The post Key Lime Pie Martini with Coconut Rum and Vanilla Vodka appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

What a great collaborative art project for a group of kids to do together.

It would be great for craft camp or art class.

Kids can do it on their own at home too though, and just look at the gorgeous mobile you'll have to hang in your yard or play room!

Check it out at the link below. Go! Go!

The post Painted CD Garden Mobile for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

This easy recipe uses corn starch, corn syrup and vinegar, and it makes a great glue for paper crafts and preschool projects.

It takes a little longer to dry than store-bought glue, but you'll save money and not have to worry about being wasteful when they kids use a little to much when they're crafting.

Click the link below for the easy recipe!

The post How to Make Glue with 3 Kitchen Ingredients – Great for Kids’ Crafts! appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

All you need are some metal washers and paint.

This is a great craft to do a home and a super one for craft camp too.

It's easy to do, and the kids loved wearing theirs. Check out the splattered effect some of the kids made on theirs.

They're gorgeous!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Painted Washer Necklace Craft for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The activity we're sharing today is a great way for preschoolers to learn how to print letters, numbers and their name, and it's a terrific way for older kids to practice writing, math and sight words over the summer.

Bonus: it's mess-free and it will keep the kids busy for ages!

Give it a try today!

Click the link below to see the details.

The post Painting Letters With Water – a Fun, Summer Learning Activity appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Better yet, when was the last time you made some?

Bust out the lemons and make a batch with the kids today. They'll love helping you squeeze the lemons (great for strengthening those little hand muscles), and you'll all enjoy the fruits of your labor.

It's SO easy to make in just three easy steps, and it tastes amazing!

Click the link below for the recipe!

The post How to Make Fresh-Squeezed Lemonade in 3 Easy Steps appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post How to Make Goop with a Fun Nature Twist appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

This quick and easy shortcake is super-simple to make and it's ready in minutes.

The nice thing about it is you can change up the fruit to suit whatever your tastes prefer.

And, it looks and tastes like it's made from scratch, so-one will ever guess that it isn't!

Click the link below to get the "recipe".

The post Quick and Easy Blueberry-Pineapple Shortcake appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

My gang ranged in age from 5-10 and they loved this one, but toddlers and preschoolers can totally make these too!

They're a cute little gift to accompany a Father's Day gift, or your kids can make them and trade them with friends.

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Vibrant Chalk Marker Bookmarks for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's fun, easy, and delicious, and a fascinating science activity too!

It's perfect for the backyard at home or for daycare or summer camp.

Bonus: You only need a handful of supplies to make it!

Click the link below to see the how-to!

The post Coffee Can Ice Cream – How to Make Homemade Ice Cream In a Tin Can appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Rather than just making my usual favourites this summer, I've done some digging and turned up a ton of amazing rhubarb recipes.

If you have a fresh rhubarb in your garden right now, check these out.

I'm super-excited to try the salsa and the gazpacho! And some of the desserts... OH MY.

Click the link below to check them all out!

The post 22 of the Best Rhubarb Recipes For Summer appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you've never done the 2nd one before, you simply MUST! It's so awesome! I've included a video in the post so you can see it in action.

All of these experiments can be done with common ingredients you likely already have around the house.

They're great for introducing young children to science, and perfect for daycare, preschool or homeschool.

Call the kids in to watch the video. It will blow their minds!

Click the link below to get to the post.

The post 3 Easy Chemical Reactions for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If you're looking for a fun and adorable Father's Day card for the kids to make for Dad this year, check out this necktie card!

It's different than the shirt and tie cards you've likely seen in past years. This one involves a cool sensory art process, and bonus - the finished project smells just like Dad!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Scented Necktie Father’s Day Card for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

To celebrate spring, we recently made these paper towel roll butterflies.

You just need a few basic supplies, and the kids will love the process.

And just look at them. I think they're the most adorable butterflies we've made yet!

Click the link below to see them!

The post Adorable Paper Towel Roll Butterfly Craft for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

This card is made with wall paper samples, which you can get for free at your local paint and wallpaper store.

We made "fancy dresses" with our samples, and the kids just loved the process.

I think the moms are going to love the results!

Click the link below to check them out!

The post “Fancy Dress” Mother’s Day Card For Kids to Make (with Wall Paper Samples) appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Check out these sweet Flower Cookie Bouquets your kids can make for Mother's Day!

They're so easy! You don't even have to do any baking!

What a fun little gift for kids to for Mom or Grandma.

After all, who wouldn't want to receive a bouquet as delicious as this?

Click the link below to check them out!

The post Cookie Flower Bouquet For Kids to Make for Mother’s Day appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Your son or daughter is about to enter a whole new chapter of his or her life, and embark on the path that will carry them into their future.

Whether you pan to write them a heart-felt message in a card, or sit down and have a meaningful, one-on-one conversation with them, here are 18 things every high school graduate needs to hear before heading off to college.

Click on the link below to read the full post.

The post Powerful Words of Wisdom for High School Seniors – 20 Things Your College Kid Needs to Hear appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's perfect for Teacher Appreciate week (May 7-11) or for an end of the year gift for your chlld's teacher.

The post Teacher Appreciation Word Cloud – Gifts For Male Or Female Teachers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

These easy oatmeal chocolate chip bars are chewy, delicious and easy to make.

Baking with young kids is wonderful for so many reasons:

There's the one-on-one time you get to spend together, and the learning that comes along with it - measuring, mixing, and following directions.

And best of all, you're making memories together that you and your child will cherish years for now.

For this easy printable recipe, just click the link below.

The post Easy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars – A Kid Friendly Recipe appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It provides us with a great opportunity to teach our little ones about the importance of taking care of our planet.

Alana from Parenting From The Heart Blog has shared this fun and easy Compost and Recycling Sorting Activity with us.

It teaches preschoolers how to decide which items to put in the compost bin, recycle bin and the trash.

She's included a free printable so you can make this activity for your home or preschool.

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Compost and Recycling Sorting Activity For Preschoolers – With Printable appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

If your kids love french toast, they'll go bonkers for these french toast nuggets!

They're so fun and easy to make, the kids will want to do most of the work themselves.

And what's not to love?! They're so fun to eat! You just dunk 'em and pop 'em in your mouth!

They're guaranteed to be a hit with your kids no matter how old they are! Check them out with the link below

Go! Go!

The post French Toast Nuggets – A Fun, Finger-Food Lunch Idea for Kids appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

Read More

The post Smoosh Painted Earth Day Craft For Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I've rounded up 12 easy and adorable Easter chick crafts for your kids to make this year.

If you're looking for some last-minute projects to make with the kids this week, you'll want to check these out.

They're so CUTE!

Click the link below to see them all!

The post 12 Adorable Easter Chick Crafts for Kids to Make appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's a rainbow scavenger hunt that you can do in your play room or classroom.

It will help kids learn colours, colour order, and it's a whole lot of fun because they'll turn their treasures into a beautiful rainbow.

A round of applause and a big thanks goes out to our follower Kirstin for sharing this fabulous activity with us!

Doesn't it look gorgeous and so inviting?

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Colour Scavenger Hunt for Toddlers and Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It couldn't be easier!

We coloured our eggs (super-easy!), and then dribbled liquid watercolours all over them, and WOW, you should see the results! They're gorgeous!

The process is totally easy and fun. Everyone will love it - from the toddlers right through to the teens! Heck, even I had a blast colouring our eggs this way! We've polished them up, and set them in a bowl along with our easy marblelized eggs from the other day.

Check them out!

The post Decorating Easter Eggs with Liquid Watercolours appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

The post “Chocolate” Easter Bunny Craft for Kids – An Easy Toilet Roll Craft appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

I know how much your kids love dyeing Easter eggs. Well, at least I think I do because what kid doesn't love doing that at Easter time?

I also know how much of a pain in the patootie the process can be with all the bowls of food colouring and hot water and whatnot.

It's not a quick and easy process, and it's not mess-free.

Well, you are going to LOVE the process we've come up with to dye the coolest looking tie-dye Easter eggs this year because it's SUPER easy, SUPER quick and it's virtually mess-free.

Grab the Sharpies and the rubbing alcohol, because you're about to make the most awesome Easter eggs ever, and the process is going to WOW your kids!

Click the link below to check out how gorgeous they are, and to get the easy instructions!

The post Gorgeous Tie-Dye Easter Eggs with Sharpies and Rubbing Alcohol appeared first on Happy Hooligans.

It's a quick and easy project for your older kids to make, and your toddlers and preschoolers will love playing with it.

They'll learn colour order and size order, and they're balancing skills will be challenged as they try to build the perfect rainbow-coloured tower without tipping it over.

Isn't it pretty?!

Click the link below to check it out!

The post Rainbow Stacking Stones – a Balancing Activity for Preschoolers appeared first on Happy Hooligans.