Top Secret DIY Summer Camp-At-Home–Ideas Needed!
Now that you’ve made it through the large-font title, which my kids can see over my shoulder, I’ll admit to planning an at-home summer “camp” themed around Webkinz. Why? Because my kids love the organization and immersion of a planned camp, but such things are expensive. Also, they love Webkinz. [There are no hyperlinks, ads, or images to such creatures in this post. If you are a parent, you've probably already seen them too many already!] And I want your help!
I’m using the description of a local summer camp as inspiration: “Join us for a magical week of wonder in Webkinz-ville! Each camper designs and makes a miniature bed so their favorite Webkinz has a place to rest throughout the week. Throughout the camp, we learn how to make unique accessories, draw all kinds of popular Webkinz, and will have a blast with fun hands-on activities. At the end of the week, we perform a small play with our newly accessorized pals, with a cast of only Webkinz!”
I, however, have the added challenge of planning for a wide range of ages: 3, 6, and 8. The more complex activities can be done while the 3-year old sleeps.
Already planned:
- Designing and making a quilt for their animal. They bought the fat quarters of fabric earlier on a whim. I’ve created a quilt graph paper PDF for them to color and design–we’ll probably do a 10×10 grid of 2″ squares. I’ll probably let them spend a little time sewing squares together, but assume that the majority of sewing will fall on me.
- Choreographing a play at the end of the week, using whatever clothes and props we make earlier
- Making a menu and meal in their Webkinz Restaurant ostensibly for the animals to eat
- Taking their animals to play at the park
Still brainstorming:
- Party games which explicitly use the animals for something. Problem is, I’m not familiar with the online Webkinz games and gimmicks. I’ve checked out the party ideas on their website, but that still doesn’t give me a clue what the really cool things are.
- Potentially one other craft, one that the 3-yr. old can participate in. A shoebox bed? Accessories like mini jewelry?
If you have any ideas, feel free to leave them in the comments and I’ll credit you when I use them. Stay tuned for updates of what we do…don’t let me get lazy!