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Crafty Dad
Help Your Child Make Something Special for Mother's Day By Debbie Swanson
At most craft stores you can purchase blank tote bags, aprons or T-shirts. With a bit of fabric paint, these can be easily transformed into a keepsake to use as well as to treasure.
Depending upon your child's age and ability, he or she can decorate with designs, words or handprints. Fabric paint is not as messy as it sounds – many paints are available in neater types of dispensers, such as droppers or pen/marker styles. It also washes off hands and skin easily before it dries. Dress your child in old clothes, however, and protect your work area carefully, because as intended, once fabric paint dries it is permanent.
Go out for Art
If arts and crafts are just not your cup of tea, take the kids to one of the many paint-it-yourself ceramics studios (check the newspaper or phone book for one in your area). There, even the youngest child can sponge paint a coffee mug or stamp their hand or footprint onto a plate or tile. Once they are kiln fired, these gifts are cherished for years to come. As you and your child work on your projects, remember that the end result may not be perfect, but the sentiment behind it always will be. Once finished, wrap up the work of art, attach a homemade card and your child is all set to surprise Mom on her special day!