Request a quote
Lavender is not only a beautiful and fragrant plant but also an excellent material for various crafts that kids can enjoy. Its soothing scent and delicate appearance make it perfect for projects that are both fun and educational. Engaging children in lavender crafts allows them to explore their creativity while also learning about nature, the importance of plants, and the sensory experiences that different materials can offer.
In this article, we will explore a variety of simple and fun lavender crafts for kids. These projects are designed to be easy to follow, require minimal materials, and can be adapted to suit different age groups and skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a rainy-day activity or a way to teach kids about the natural world, these lavender crafts are sure to inspire and delight.
Materials Needed:
Instructions: Lavender sachets are a classic and simple craft that kids can make with minimal supervision. Begin by cutting the fabric into small squares, approximately 5x5 inches. Place a handful of dried lavender buds in the center of the fabric square. Fold the fabric in half and sew or glue the edges together, leaving a small opening. Once the lavender is securely inside, sew or glue the opening shut. Add a ribbon or string to decorate the sachet or to hang it up.
These sachets can be placed in drawers, under pillows, or even in the car for a soothing scent that lasts for months. This craft teaches children basic sewing skills and the importance of natural fragrances.
Variations: For younger children, pre-sewn sachets can be provided where they only need to stuff the lavender inside. Alternatively, fabric glue can replace needles and thread to make the process safer and easier for little hands.
Materials Needed:
Instructions: Making lavender-scented playdough is a sensory-rich activity that children will love. Start by mixing the flour, salt, and cream of tartar in a large bowl. Add the vegetable oil and boiling water, stirring continuously until the dough begins to form. If desired, add a few drops of lavender essential oil and purple food coloring to enhance the sensory experience.
Once the dough has cooled enough to handle, knead in the dried lavender buds. The playdough can be used immediately for creative play or stored in an airtight container for later use. This craft is a great way to combine touch, smell, and creativity, making it an ideal project for sensory development.
Benefits: Lavender playdough not only provides a calming and engaging activity but also helps children develop fine motor skills, sensory awareness, and creativity. The relaxing scent of lavender can also have a calming effect, making this a perfect activity for winding down before nap time or bed.
Materials Needed:
Instructions: Lavender wands are a traditional craft that can be made by weaving ribbon around the stems of fresh lavender. To start, gather an odd number of lavender stems (typically 7 or 9) and tie them together just below the flowers.
Next, bend the stems down over the flowers and begin weaving the ribbon over and under the stems. Continue this pattern until the flowers are completely covered by the ribbon. Tie off the end of the ribbon and trim any excess stems. These lavender wands can be used as natural air fresheners or as pretty decorations.
Educational Aspect: This craft introduces children to the concept of weaving, an ancient technique used in many cultures. It also offers a chance to discuss the growth and uses of lavender, from its cultivation to its role in various traditions.
Materials Needed:
Instructions: Bath bombs are a fun and fizzy way to make bath time more exciting. Begin by mixing the dry ingredients (baking soda, citric acid, corn starch, and Epsom salt) in a large bowl. Add a few drops of lavender essential oil and mix well.
If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to water and slowly spritz it into the dry mixture while stirring. Be careful not to add too much water at once, as this can cause the mixture to fizz prematurely. Add in a handful of dried lavender buds.
Once the mixture reaches a consistency where it holds together when pressed, pack it tightly into bath bomb molds or silicone molds. Let the bath bombs dry for at least 24 hours before removing them from the molds. These homemade bath bombs make for a fun and fragrant addition to bath time.
Learning Experience: This craft introduces basic chemistry concepts, such as the reaction between baking soda and citric acid that creates the fizzing effect. It also teaches children about the benefits of aromatherapy and self-care.
Materials Needed:
Instructions: Potpourri jars are a lovely way to preserve the scent of lavender and other dried botanicals. Start by layering dried lavender buds and other dried flowers or herbs in a glass jar. For added fragrance, you can mix in a few drops of essential oils. Seal the jar with a lid, and let the potpourri sit for a few days to allow the scents to blend.
Once ready, these jars can be opened and placed around the house to freshen the air naturally. Children can personalize their potpourri jars by choosing their own combination of dried botanicals and decorating the jar with ribbon, stickers, or paint.
Creativity and Customization: This craft encourages children to use their sense of smell to create a personalized scent blend. It also provides an opportunity for them to practice fine motor skills by layering the different materials in the jar.
Materials Needed:
Instructions: Making lavender-infused paper is a unique craft that combines creativity with recycling. Begin by preparing the paper pulp by blending scrap paper with water until it forms a thick slurry. Add the dried lavender buds to the pulp and mix well.
Pour the pulp into a large tub of water and dip the screen or mesh into the mixture, lifting it out to form a sheet of paper. Use a rolling pin or sponge to press out excess water, then carefully remove the paper from the screen and lay it flat to dry.
Once dry, this lavender-infused paper can be used for writing, drawing, or making homemade cards. The scent of lavender will linger, adding a sensory element to the craft.
Educational Benefits: This project teaches children about recycling and the papermaking process, as well as the sensory experience of working with natural materials. It’s an excellent way to introduce environmental education in a hands-on and creative way.
Materials Needed:
Instructions: Lavender sun catchers are a simple and beautiful craft that children can make with minimal assistance. Start by cutting a piece of clear contact paper into a shape of your choice, such as a circle, heart, or star. Peel off the backing and lay the contact paper sticky side up.
Arrange the dried lavender sprigs on the sticky side of the contact paper, pressing them down gently. Once the design is complete, place another piece of contact paper on top, sticky side down, to seal the lavender inside. Trim any excess contact paper around the edges.
Punch a hole at the top and thread a ribbon or string through it to hang the sun catcher in a window. When the sunlight shines through, the lavender will be beautifully illuminated.
Visual and Sensory Learning: This craft allows children to explore patterns, shapes, and the effects of light. It also provides an opportunity to discuss how sunlight helps plants grow and the role of lavender in the natural world.
Lavender crafts for kids are a delightful way to introduce children to the world of plants, nature, and creativity. These simple and fun projects offer a range of sensory experiences, from the soothing scent of lavender to the tactile pleasure of working with natural materials. Whether making lavender sachets, playdough, or sun catchers, these crafts encourage children to explore their creativity, learn new skills, and develop a deeper appreciation for the beauty and benefits of the natural world. Through these activities, children not only create something beautiful but also gain a sense of accomplishment and a connection to the environment around them.