Mama Smiles

Joyful Parenting

MaryAnne at Mama Smiles Welcome to my blog! I'm MaryAnne, and I write about building a rewarding family life through mindful parenting, hands-on learning, and creative family activities. Learn more.

rainy day fun for kids

Animal Fashion Show and More Zoo Themed Learning Fun

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Inspire kids to get creative with this fun animal fashion show, plus more zoo themed learning fun for kids. I love trying out new and exciting crafting materials, but when it comes to raising creative kids, there’s something to be said for limiting craft materials, at least some of the time! We packed up at least half of our belongings when we put our house on the market, … [Read more...] about Animal Fashion Show and More Zoo Themed Learning Fun

How To Make A Simple Carnival Game For Kids

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Learn to make this simple carnival game for kids! This Feed Me Monster is such an easy DIY carnival game for kids that a child can make it! Johnny's cub scout troop threw a carnival for kids last month, and each scout was asked to make and run a carnival game. Johnny was able to make this simple Feed Me! Monster carnival bean bag toss game with very little help, and it was … [Read more...] about How To Make A Simple Carnival Game For Kids

Easy Art for Kids: Sticker Mosaic Scenes

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These sticker scenes make a great quick and easy art activity for kids! I love how open-ended this activity is - we use it on road trips. It's also a great activity to have in your bag for waiting rooms and restaurants. Check out the list at the end of this post for more quick, easy, and highly portable DIY kids' activities. This sticker mosaic art activity is one of my … [Read more...] about Easy Art for Kids: Sticker Mosaic Scenes

Printable Matching Game and Pond Themed Learning Activities

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A simple printable matching game for kids to make and play. Both DIY and print and play versions you can download for free. Also more pond themed learning activities for kids. My Five Little Ducks printable is one of my more popular blog posts, so for this week's pond theme I took that image and created a matching game. It's the perfect companion for In the Small Small … [Read more...] about Printable Matching Game and Pond Themed Learning Activities

How One Roll of Car Tape Inspired Hours of Pretend Play

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I love how this group of cousins turned a single roll of car tape into hours of pretend play! Definitely something to have on hand for the next rainy day! It's the perfect activity for kids at birthday parties or family reunions. When we received a box of car tape in the mail to review, I knew it would be perfect for the next time I needed an engaging activity for the … [Read more...] about How One Roll of Car Tape Inspired Hours of Pretend Play