Fun Freetime: Crafts for the Summer Olympics on Pinterest

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With trials almost over, the London 2012 Summer Olympics will soon commence. While the games are viewed by people all over the world, most young children don't find them particularly interesting—this is partly because they don't really understand what's going on or see the importance of it all. However, if you would like to get your child more involved so that you can see the Olympic Games as a family, you might want to try making the event more appealing by incorporating some kid-friendly crafts into the mix while simultaneously educating your child about the subject. Whether you choose to do these crafts while watching the games or shortly before is up to you, either way it can definitely help spark your child's interest. The ones I've hand selected below were found searching Pinterest.

Olympic Rings

What better way to introduce your child to the summer games than by creating some traditional Olympic Rings? This craft project, which is provided by the MotherHuddle, is fairly easily to make. All you need are some used toilet paper rolls (which are used as stencils), craft paint in the appropriate Olympic colors, a piece of paper and voila! Your kid will be making Olympic rings in no time.

Ceremonial Flaming Torch

There are tons of craft torches that can be found on Pinterest but this one from Busy Bee Kids Crafts is probably the best and most authentic looking one out of the bunch. All you need is a Styrofoam cup, some flame-colored tissue paper, and an empty paper towel roll to create this beautiful master piece.

Salt Dough Olympic Medals

If you really want your child to feel like a winner, then creating some medals out of salt dough can do the trick. Salt dough, which hardens as it dries, is super easy to make and is probably less expensive then play dough or clay. To make salt dough, all you need is all purpose flour, salt and water. To make the medals more festive have your child paint and decorate them. For step-by-step directions visit The Imagination Tree House.

Team Bracelets

Last but not least your kid will have a hoot creating these simple team bracelets while watching the Games—all you need are pipe cleaners and alphabet beads. For a better description of how to make these crafty bracelets, visit No Time for Flashcards.

Barbara Jolie is a full time freelance writer and blogger. She is passionate about lifelong learning and online education. When Barbara is not blogging about all things education, she enjoys spending time with her calico cat, Moses, and her pet parakeet. If you have questions email her at barbara.jolie876@gmail.com.