We all wish it wasn’t true—but spring in Erie doesn’t always mean sunshine and outdoor play. If you’re running out of ideas (and your walls have seen one too many crayon masterpieces), it might be time to try something new.
Crafts are a great way to pass the time—but they also do more than you might think.
This article is sponsored by Erie County Project LAUNCH.
As Kayla Olson, Director of Early Intervention at the Achievement Center of LECOM Health, puts it: "Crafting with your child creates so many opportunities for development. You can bond, practice following directions, explore curiosity and problem-solving, and build both fine and gross motor skills.”
Craft & Connect
Saturday, April 11 | 10 AM–12 PM
Achievement Center of LECOM Health
4950 West 23rd St., Erie, PA 16506
NO RSVP REQUIRED!
Families with children ages 0–8 are invited to drop in for free space-themed crafts, movement activities, and story time—all designed to support connection and emotional well-being.
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Here are three fun, simple crafts to try on a rainy (or snowy… Erie, we see you) day:
1. Rocket Straws
You’ll need:
- A paper rocket (draw your own or print one out, then cut it out)
- 2 straws (1 wide, 1 thin)
- Tape
- Markers (optional)
Steps:
- Decorate your rocket.
- Pinch and tape one end of the wide straw closed.
- Tape the wide straw to the back of the rocket (sealed end near the top).
- Insert the thin straw into the wide one and blow to launch!
Why it matters:
Blowing the rocket builds oral motor strength (the same muscles used for speech), while launching and chasing it encourages movement, coordination, and a little problem-solving along the way.
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2. Galaxy Jar of Feelings
You’ll need:
- Clear plastic bottle
- 2/3 cup warm water
- 1/3 cup clear glue
- Glitter, sequins, or small beads
- Tacky glue
Steps:
- Add water and glue to the bottle. Close and shake.
- Open and add glitter or small items.
- Seal tightly and secure the lid with tacky glue. Let dry.
- Shake and watch your galaxy swirl.
Why “feelings”?
When emotions feel big, this jar gives kids something to focus on. Watching the glitter settle can help them slow down, reset, and feel calmer.
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3. Galaxy Slime
You’ll need:
- 1/2 cup clear glue
- 1 tablespoon activator (saline/contact solution with boric acid or baking soda solution)
- 1/4 teaspoon mica powder (or glitter)
- Bowl + spoon
- Airtight container
Steps:
- Pour glue into a bowl.
- Mix in color (mica powder or glitter).
- Add activator and stir until slime forms (fair warning: this takes longer than you think—prep your mixing muscles!).
- Knead until smooth.
- Store in an airtight container.
Why it matters:
Stretching, squeezing, and kneading slime helps build hand strength and fine motor skills—plus, the repetitive motion can be calming and help kids regulate their energy.
Parent tip: This one can get messy—cover your surface and keep wipes nearby.
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Did you notice the space theme? It’s hard to miss when you’re part of Project LAUNCH—a collaborative initiative led by the Achievement Center, focused on supporting the wellness of children ages 0–8, right here in Erie County.
Whether you join us at the event or try a craft at home, the goal is simple: spend a little time connecting with your child.
Looking for simple ways to check in with your child? Watch Project LAUNCH’s free video, “Checking in Early: Stronger Together from the Start,” for practical, everyday tips to build strong connections:
