3 weeks of winter break! How to survive the school holidays

How do you survive the school holidays?

By: Natasha Archary

Parents throughout the city can relate to the anxiety of having their kids home for the September school holidays.

Frustrated parents, who love their kids, feel that 2 weeks is way too long to have their kids home, and with no option but to still work during the school break, the question on most parent’s minds is, how to survive the school holidays?

Other than crying into your coffee every morning, it’s important to establish some holiday ground rules so when the kids do return back to school in October, the transition from holiday mode to reality is not too much for the kiddos to take in.

School holidays are much needed for kids to recharge and destress before the start of the final challenging school term.

Allowing the kids the first week of the holidays to literally just “blom” is not a bad thing.

Parenting blog Mamma Mia said that the strict school routine, heavy workload and structured days, can be hard on children, so holidays should be about resting their minds, bodies and recharging their energy.

Giving your kids some downtime for the first week could be exactly what they need to not feel like they’re auto-piloting through their days.

Chances are after a rigorous term, they’re exhausted both mentally and physically. Early mornings, late evenings studying or completing homework daily can take its toll on little minds.

If all else fails, try some of these indoor activities to keep the kids entertained and give parents about 5-minutes of quiet time because it’s going to take some creativity to survive the school holidays.

Emma Moore from Viral Rang also shares some fun and easy paper mache ideas for kids and adults which can come in useful during the school holidays.

Have you ever dabbled in the delightful world of paper mache? If not, you’re in for a treat! Paper mache is a fantastic art form that truly knows no age limit—it’s perfect for kids and adults alike.

Imagine the fun of tearing up old newspapers, dipping them in gooey paste, and transforming them into whimsical creations. The best part? You don’t need fancy supplies or prior experience to dive right in!

Paper mache is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a beginner just looking for a fun weekend project or an experienced crafter aiming to create intricate masterpieces, there’s something here for everyone. From vibrant masks and adorable animal sculptures to elegant vases and unique wall art, the possibilities are endless.

But what really makes paper mache special is the joy and sense of accomplishment it brings. There’s something wonderfully satisfying about seeing your project take shape, layer by layer.

It’s a creative process that can be both relaxing and exhilarating. So, why not grab some paper, mix up some paste, and let your imagination run wild? Let’s explore the fun and easy world of paper mache together!

Getting started with paper mache

Hey there! Ready to dive into the world of paper mache? Let’s get started with the basics. First up, you’ll need to gather a few simple supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Materials needed:

Old newspapers or any scrap paper
All-purpose flour
Water
White glue (optional)
A mixing bowl
A spoon or whisk
Balloons, cardboard, or any mold for shaping
Paints and brushes for decorating
Vaseline or plastic wrap (for easy mold removal)

Simple Techniques

How to make paper mache paste:

There are two popular methods to create your paper mache paste, and both are super easy:

Flour and Water Method:
- Mix 1 part flour with 2 parts water in a bowl.
- Stir the mixture well until it reaches a smooth, batter-like consistency.
- Add a pinch of salt to prevent mold growth if you’re working on a longer project.
Glue and Water Method:
- Combine equal parts white glue and water in a bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until you achieve a uniform consistency.
- This method results in a stronger and more durable finish.

Basic steps:

Tearing Paper:
- Tear your newspaper or scrap paper into strips. Aim for around 1-inch wide strips, but feel free to adjust based on your project.
- Avoid cutting the paper with scissors; torn edges blend better when layered.
Dipping:
- Dip each strip of paper into your paste, ensuring it’s fully coated but not overly saturated.
- Use your fingers to remove excess paste from the strip.
Layering:
- Lay the strips across your mold or base, overlapping slightly to cover all areas.
- Smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles as you go.
- Continue adding layers until your project feels sturdy. Typically, 3-4 layers are sufficient.

Drying and finishing techniques:

Drying:
- Allow your paper mache project to air dry completely between layers. This can take anywhere from a few hours to overnight, depending on the thickness.
- Speed up the process by placing your project in a warm, dry place or using a fan.
Finishing:
- Once fully dried, gently remove your project from the mold. If you used a balloon, pop it and peel away the remnants.
- Sand any rough edges with fine-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish.
- Paint and decorate your creation as desired. Seal with a clear varnish for added durability and a glossy finish.

And there you have it! You’re now equipped with the essentials to get started on your paper mache journey. Happy crafting!

Also read: “My sugar daddy refuses to let me date anyone else” – The Blind Spot

Written by: Natasha

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