I've always considered myself not much of a DIY-er. Despite my best efforts, my projects often end up looking like half-finished kindergarten art. However, I keep trying because I believe it's worth it. Engaging in DIY projects gives me something productive to do, and I avoid boredom-induced snacking. Moreover, I love learning through research, watching how-to videos, and embracing trial and error. An active brain is a happy one, and occasionally, I find easy activities that are virtually foolproof 😆. These are my favorites, especially when they’re safe and simple enough for my son to join in.
My son loves bird watching. He thinks he’s bird catching but hasn’t quite mastered the art of sneaking quietly yet. It’s hilarious watching him tip-toe through the grass trying to sneak up on birds on our fence line. When I stumbled upon a DIY birdfeeder while searching for easy nature crafts for kids, I knew we had to try it. Minimal supplies, appearance didn’t matter, and it had a purpose. Check, check, check!
Supplies
Butter knife
Plate / Cup
Scissors
Cardboard (toilet paper rolls or a shoe box lid)
Peanut butter
Birdseed
Twine
If you want to keep it super nature friendly to place along trails or parks, use a natural twine that is biodegradable or that birds can later use for nesting and replace the cardboard with regular old pine cones!
Here's how we did it:
Step 1: Have your supplies ready to go. Your peanut butter is open and the butter knife is already in the jar. Pour a generous amount of birdseed onto your plate. Cut the appropriate lengths of twine needed for where you will be hanging the finished product. If you're using a shoe box lid, use your scissors to poke a hole in each corner for your twine to tie through.
Step 2: Cover your cardboard in peanut butter! A thick layer isn't necessary, but you want it to be thick enough that the birdseed can sink into it.
Step 3: Roll your peanut butter covered cardboard in the plate of birdseed, ensuring it's fully covered. If you're using a shoebox lid, you can use the cup to pour directly onto the peanut butter.
Step 4: Attach twine. If you're using a toilet paper or paper towel roll, just loop the twine through the open middle. If you're using a shoebox lid, insert the ends of a long length of twine into opposite corner holes and knot under the lid. This should end up with the twine crossing each other and providing a perfect cross section to hang over a fence post or tree branch.
Step 5: Hang your birdfeeder!
The excitement on my son's face when we checked back later and saw the birdfeeders being eaten was priceless! I allowed him to help in each step of the process, and remember - the older the kiddo, the more independently they can do each step. Crafts can seem like a good time killer on a rainy day or busy work to keep the kids entertained while you cook (and they definitely are!) but they also offer some really good benefits to kids, too.
Tactile Play and Motor Skills
Making a DIY birdfeeder involves tactile play, enhancing fine motor skills. Your child will get hands-on experience spreading peanut butter and rolling the birdseed, which are great activities for developing hand-eye coordination and dexterity.
Learning Opportunities
This craft offers numerous chances to discuss various topics like animals, nature, and the importance of being kind to our planet and its inhabitants. It's a wonderful way to teach children about doing good deeds and contributing to the environment.
Independence and Decision-Making
Allowing children to perform safe tasks in the craft and pick the spot to hang the birdfeeder fosters a sense of independence and gives them practice in decision-making. It empowers them to take ownership of the project and feel proud of their contributions.
Quality Time Together
Working on this project provides focused, quality time with your child. It's a fun and engaging way to bond while doing something productive and educational.
Engaging in easy nature crafts for kids like this DIY birdfeeder is not only fun but also beneficial for your child’s development. Chalk this one up to a successful fun activity that's easy, cheap, and educational. Just how I like them 😊
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