"This is supposed to be fun", you say to yourself. "Quality time with the kids is key to their growth and development", you remind yourself. What you see however, is a mess that will take longer to clean up than the time spent with the kids. "I should have just read them a book."
Take heart. An organized crafter is a happy crafter, and if you offer your children an organized array of materials, communicate your expectations and have tools available so the children can help in the clean up process, it shouldn't be that bad.
First, prepare the work area before you invite the kids to do a project. Cover your work space. Newspaper is the covering of choice in our house, and from what I see in other suggestions, many others too. Yes, just newspaper, on the table and on the floor (if you're doing a "wet" project and aren't planning on washing it when you're through). Newspaper is the least costly alternative and can be disposed of when you're done, just roll it up and drop in the recycling bin. Don't skimp! I have literally scrubbed the finish off my kitchen table by taking the "it's washable" attitude. Yes, glue and paint come off, but only if you're using the scrubbing side of the sponge!
Second, cover clothing. Many project require glue, paint and if you're making a craft recipe, food coloring. Even products labeled washable may stain. My personal favorite smock is the "Dad's old shirt worn backwards". I remember wearing them when I was a young child. The following articles at Family Fun offer tips on minimizing mess, reducing clutter and making a towel into an apron. http://family.go.com/Categories/Activiti... http://family.go.com/Categories/Activiti...
Be prepared. Know what you're going to offer and have all the supplies on the table before you get started; this way, you won't have to leave the kids unattended, paintbrushes in hand, to get more paper, glue or whatever. http://family.go.com/Categories/Activiti...
Be organized. Have all small pieces in separate containers, like butter dishes, to keep them from spreading all over the table, floor, room, etc.. It also reduces clean up time and time spent setting up in the future because all your supplies are ready to go. I like to use a lazy susan so the kids can all reach the supplies without having to get up an walk around the table or screech at each other to pass the glitter. The following article at About.com suggest a homemade craft kit. Supplies are always together, easy to store and ready when you are. http://craftsforkids.about.com/parenting...
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