Spring break is the perfect time for kids to get creative while learning about sustainability! These sustainable kids crafts use natural crafting materials and non-toxic art supplies, making them safe for little hands and kind to the planet. Whether indoors or outdoors, these eco-friendly DIY projects for kids encourage creativity while reducing waste.

Here are ten fun spring crafts for children that celebrate nature and sustainability.

1.    Nature-Based Painting

Swap traditional paintbrushes for natural tools like leaves, twigs, and flowers to create unique textures in artwork.

How to Do It:

•    Collect leaves, flowers, and sticks from your backyard.
•    Use non-toxic paints on recycled paper.
•    Press or brush with the natural items to create fun designs.
•    Let dry and display the eco-friendly masterpieces!

2.    Recycled Paper Collages

Turn old magazines, newspapers, and scrap paper into colorful collages.

How to Do It:

•    Cut out fun shapes, patterns, and colors from recycled materials.
•    Use non-toxic glue to create designs on cardboard or paper.
•    Frame or gift these upcycled artworks!

3.    DIY Bird Feeders

Help feed backyard birds while reusing materials like toilet paper rolls and pinecones.

How to Do It:

•    Spread peanut butter or vegetable shortening on a toilet paper roll or pinecone.
•    Roll in birdseed until fully coated.
•    Hang outside with a string and watch the birds enjoy!

4.    Egg Carton Flower Pots

Repurpose egg cartons into mini planters for growing herbs or flowers.

How to Do It:

•    Cut an egg carton into individual cups.
•    Fill with soil and plant seeds.
•    Water regularly and watch the plants grow!

5.    Cardboard Tube Binoculars

Encourage outdoor exploration with homemade binoculars made from recycled cardboard tubes.

How to Do It:

•    Tape or glue two toilet paper rolls together.
•    Decorate with non-toxic paint or markers.
•    Attach a yarn strap for easy carrying on nature walks.

6.    Pressed Flower Bookmarks

Create beautiful bookmarks using dried flowers and recycled cardboard.

How to Do It:

•    Pick small flowers and press them in a heavy book for a few days.
•    Glue onto a strip of cardboard and laminate (or cover with clear tape).
•    Use as a sustainable and pretty bookmark!

7.    Homemade Playdough

Skip store-bought playdough and make a natural, non-toxic version at home.

How to Do It:

•    Mix 2 cups flour, 1/2 cup salt, 2 tbsp oil, and 3/4 cup warm water.
•    Add natural food coloring for extra fun.
•    Store in an airtight container for reuse! 

Pro Tip: You could also reuse one of our Shower Steamer glass jars to store the playdough AND make it smell yummy!

8.    Sock Puppets from Old Clothing

Turn mismatched socks into fun puppets with scrap fabric and buttons.

How to Do It:

•    Use old socks as the puppet base.
•    Glue or sew on buttons for eyes and fabric scraps for decorations.
•    Put on a puppet show for a creative playtime!

9.    Twig Picture Frames

Make rustic photo frames from collected twigs and cardboard.

How to Do It:

•    Cut a frame shape from recycled cardboard.
•    Glue or tie twigs around the edges.
•    Insert a favorite photo or drawing!

10.    DIY Nature Bracelets

Create wearable art using tape and found natural items.

How to Do It:

•    Wrap a strip of masking tape (sticky side out) around your child’s wrist.
•    Collect small leaves, petals, and seeds to stick onto the tape.
•    Wear and enjoy a one-of-a-kind nature bracelet!

These eco-friendly DIY projects for kids make spring break both fun and educational. Using natural crafting materials and non-toxic art supplies, children can explore creativity while learning about sustainability. 

Which craft will you try first? Share your favorites in the comments below!