Feeling crafty? Free & cheap kids’ classes on the seacoast. Yes!
I love crafts. I really do. When my daughter heads my way with a fistful of pipe cleaners and pom-poms, I’m already strategizing the bestest most funnest snowflake window ornament ever.
If you’re not the craftiest parent around, no worries. There are plenty of free and inexpensive workshops around the Seacoast, run by other people, that your kids will really love. And you still get all the credit.
Kids’ Craft Club at Michael’s
Every Saturday, Michael’s hosts a 30 minute “Kids’ Craft Club” class for children of all ages. Typical crafts are seasonal or holiday specific and simple enough for even the younger kids. Cost is a steal at only $2 per child. Sessions, which are run by a Michael’s staff member, start every half hour from 10:30am-11:30am. Because there are only 10 spots available, you may choose to register in advance online, although you can sign up in-store if there are seats left. For more information, visit michaels.com and search Kids Classes or call your local Michael’s store (there are three locally in Newington, Seabrook and Epping).
Creative Studio at The Currier Museum
The Currier Museum in Manchester holds a Creative Studio program every second Saturday of the month. Families are welcome to stop by the museum’s studio space and take part in the monthly activity which requires your creativity and imagination. Coming up on March 12, you can design your own shoelaces! Here’s my favorite part about The Currier– every Saturday, admission to museum is free for NH residents. Arrive any time between 10am and12pm and your family can enjoy free admission until the museum closes at 5pm. For more information, visit currier.org.
Home Depot’s Kids Workshops
If you’re feeling a little nostalgic for woodshop class, check out the Home Depot’s Kids Workshops which (typically) run every first Saturday of the month. The workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety while building projects like bug houses, picture frames, wooden cars and more. Kids get to keep their craft, receive a certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron and a commemorative pin. All free! Show up anytime between 9am-12pm at all Home Depot locations. Visit homedepot.com and search Kids’ Workshops for monthly project info.
Lowe’s Build & Grow Kids’ Workshops
Lowe’s has a similar workshop for kids held on certain Saturdays from 10am-11am. Kids receive a free apron, goggles, a project themed patch and a merit certification upon completion of their project. Totally cute. Registration is advised to ensure enough materials. Visit lowesbuildandgrow.com for signups and information on upcoming projects.
“Green Thumb Kids’ Club” at Churchill’s Gardens
In addition, Churchill’s Gardens in Exeter hosts monthly Green Thumb Kids’ Club events in their sunny greenhouse. Projects typically focus on homemade planters, seed starters and other botanical activities. Admission is typically $5 (based on material costs) and registration is required. Visit churchillsgardens.com for upcoming dates and project info.
You don’t need to be the most artistic or creative person around to enjoy these activities with your kids, you just need to be willing. Besides, these projects are usually fool-proof. Perfect.
