Effects

• Crafting has a variety of effects on children. First and foremost, children are able to express their creativity in crafting. This develops the imagination as well as their creative skills. Secondly, cognitive skills are developed as children follow instructions and/or are guided by the teacher, parent or other adult supervising the craft activities. Finally, children feel a major sense of accomplishment when they finish a craft; this boosts self-esteem and self-confidence.
  
  

Considerations

• It is important to consider the ages of children when beginning a craft. Younger children cannot manipulate small pieces, such as beads, as successfully as older children. It is also very important to consider the materials used in the crafts when working with children. Think about the toxicity of materials used, such as paints and glues. Adult supervision is a necessity. Opt for safety scissors when crafting with children under 10, or leave all of the cutting for an adult. Also, keep in mind that the attention span of a child is relatively short; either pick a craft that can be done relatively quickly, or choose something that has different steps that you can set aside and come back to.
  
  

Time Frame

• There are many different types of crafts for children. Since the attention span of a child is relatively small, it is wise to choose a craft that can be completed within an hour. If, however, you would like to tackle something a bit more difficult and/or time-consuming, choose a craft that can be done in steps. By doing this, you can end the craft at a step, then return to the next step later. If you are making a craft with children for a specific date, be sure to plan ahead to ensure that the craft is completed by that date.
  
  

Benefits

• Children's crafts benefit the many people that are involved as well as the recipient of the craft, if it is a gift. For the child that is creating the craft, the benefits lie in the imagination, creation, technical aspects and completion of the craft. The child benefits as she is learning something new, working with her hands and gaining self-confidence once the craft is completed. It is quite satisfying for the adult instructing the child on how to make the craft. She is imparting new knowledge on the child, teaching a new skill and helping him or her create something out of her imagination that will last for quite a while. The recipient of the craft, if it is a gift, will be touched that the child created something for them. The benefit in this case is a warm feeling and a sense of a child's love.
  
  

Warning

• It is imperative to supervise children making crafts. If very young, they can choke on small pieces or eat toxic materials, such as paint or glue. Children under 10 should not use scissors (even safety scissors) without supervision. Only an adult should operate a cutting board or use a box cutter, exacto knife or other open blade.