Best Mason Jar Crafts for Kids
Tree of Gratitude(Ages 5-16)
Every Thanksgiving holiday, we have a family tradition where each of us writes down what we are thankful for. Typically, we just jot them down on some post-it notes and read them out loud, but this year, we wanted to create a centerpiece of gratitude. This tree is a simple but elegant way to display what we are are thankful for. Going forward, the tree will be a part of our holiday tradition.
Mason Jar Terrarium(Ages 3-11)
I love anything that gets my children outside and enjoying every bit of beautiful nature they can soak up. While making terrariums in our yard we searched for rocks, dug up moss and covered our hands with soil. It was a wonderful day. In the end, we were able to bring all of that right into our home to enjoy each day. This is why I love terrarium jars.
Mason Jar Lights(Ages 3-8)
This is an easy and fun craft to take along when you go camping, or to brighten up any summer night. Colorful tape over mason jars with glow sticks inside create a dramatic effect to light up the night.
DIY Calming Jar(Ages 3-8)
Looking for an alternative to time-outs in your home? Have your child create this simple calming jar using fun and bright glitter colors. This craft is a delight because it allows your child to use their fine motor skills with squeezing glitter tubes, pouring water, and twisting the cap. And the end result is a personalized jar that your child can turn to when they need a little quiet time or redirection as they watch the glitter float to the bottom.
Light-Up Mason Jar(Ages 5-16)
Bring the stars to you and learn about the amazing night sky by creating your own mini-constellation jar that can light up. Download our constellation printable here. Or for some winter-themed fun, you can create your own light-up jar of snowflakes!
Make Your Own Party Glass(Ages 3-6)
My two-year-old created this fun jar cup! It's so easy and festive. This is a simple way to have a fun fancy glass for kiddos to use at any gathering.
Snow Globes(Ages 3-8)
I love the idea of real DIY snow globes, but the potential for the water causing a serious mess has always kept me from trying it. These waterless mason jar snow globes are a low-mess solution, and are quick and easy to make. I created these as little gifts for friends, but a grouping of these in different sizes would make a beautiful display in a window or on a mantel.
Glitter Star Jars(Ages 3-11)
These mason jars filled with glitter and glow-in-the-dark stars are fun to make. Sparkly by day and glowing at night, your child will enjoy this easy-to-make DIY night light.
Natural DIY Mosquito Repellent(Ages 9-16)
Nothing ruins a great picnic celebration like mosquito bites. This year, I'm going to make some natural DIY mosquito repellent that also serves as decoration so that my family and I can enjoy the weekend festivities without any unwanted visitors. I was surprised how easy the DIY mosquito repellent jars were to make, and that all I needed were a few ingredients from the produce section of the grocery store. Once I had the lemons, limes, and rosemary, it only took me a few minutes to make each container. Plus, I could make them before the party and just screw the lid on tight until it was party time.
Tornado Jar(Ages 3-8)
My silly scientists had a blast with this hands-on experiment! We used mason jars and plastic water bottles to make our own mini tornadoes. Then they spent the afternoon spinning their bottles and watching their tornadoes twirl! They fascinated everyone from our tiny tots to my big 4th graders!
We used puffy paint to turn a recycled jar into a beautiful vase. This would work great as a candle votive, too. My daughter loved customizing these jars just as she wanted to.
Glow Lantern(Ages 5-8)
My children think anything that glows is the coolest thing ever...and I think I agree! When I recently came across some glow-in-the-dark paint at the craft store, I knew it would be perfect for some safe child-friendly lanterns for the kids. These lanterns are perfect for Halloween, campouts, and just for some glowing good fun!
Fall Leaf Votive(Ages 5-9)
Two of our favorite things about the fall season - the changing color of the leaves and Thanksgiving - come together in this DIY. We love how this project incorporates hunting for your favorite leaves outdoors along with making and creating indoors. It was fun and easy for the kids, and the votive looks lovely on our Thanksgiving table.
Sand Art(Ages 3-11)
Here's a new, fun twist on an old craft that I loved creating as a child!
Firefly Jars(Ages 5-11)
Catching fireflies is a summer tradition, but you can have "fireflies" in a jar any time of the year with this easy craft.
Density Tower(Ages 5-16)
Density is a foundational concept in physics, which explains why boats float, rocks sink, and balloons fly away when you let them go! With just a few materials from home, you can conduct your own colorful density experiment, and see how this principle works firsthand. Check it out!
Mini Aquarium(Ages 3-8)
My kids have been begging me for a pet, so I came up with one that can travel with us and doesn't require feeding! It's clean, too and the kids love him! This mini aquarium is tons of fun and really easy to make. I just hope it saves us from getting a puppy any time soon!
Tissue Paper Night-Lights(Ages 5-11)
Create a design-it-yourself night-light using everyday materials and a spark of creativity.