Are you feeling corny? If you thought corn was just for eating, get ready to be a-maize-d. Your kiddo’s favorite crunchy treat can also be an excellent ingredient for creative projects–and we’ve got just the roundup to prove it. From corn husk dolls to corn cob painting, and even some popcorn fun, check out the ideas below.
Photo: Jump Into a Book
1. Corn Husk Dolls
How sweet are these little corn husk dolls from Jump Into a Book? With just a few materials you can make them yourself–and teach the kids about the kinds of toys that existed in the generations before them. Get the how-to here.
Photo: Common Core Connection
2. Harvest Sensory Bin
Who doesn’t love a good sensory bin? With this idea from Common Core Connection, you can practice letters with the kids by hiding objects in a bin of corn and then having them dive in and hunt. Learn more here.
Photo: KidoInfo
3. Corn Cob Squirrel Feeder
Autumn is a great time to observe backyard animals and these corn cob feeders (via KidoInfo) will get the party started. It’s an ultra-easy project with big wildlife payoff. Find the directions here.
Photo: Choices for Children
4. Corn Cob Painting
The kids will get a kick out of using familiar corn cobs in a whole new way. This painting idea from Choices for Children lets them get messy and creative while learning a little something about texture and repurposed art. Get the scoop here.
Photo: Happier Than a Pig in Mud
5. Colored Popcorn
Why have plain old white popcorn when you could give it a colorful makeover? These kernels aren’t just good for sensory bins–they’re also poppable! Dye them to match a holiday, your kiddo’s fave sports team, and more. Find the instructions from the Happier Than a Pig in Mud blog here.
Photo: My Montessori Journey
6. Motor Skills Corn Activity
Here’s an easy idea from My Montessori Journey: Arm your youngster with a pair of tweezers and a corn cob and watch as they build their fine motor skills and pluck away. Head here for more inspiration.
Photo: PreK + K Sharing
7. Corn Science Project
Add some science to your day, thanks to the PreK + k Sharing blog. Experimenting with corn (in your very own milk jug lab) is a great way to teach the kids about the way things grow, water use, and more. Get more info here.
Photo: Pink Stripey Socks
8. Corn Husk Paintbrushes
Have you ever had a delish corn feast and then been left with a bunch of husks? You’re in luck, because with this clever idea from Pink Stripey Socks you can whip up some DIY brushes and paint the day away. Learn more here.
Photo: Whatever…
9. Corn Husking Race
On your marks, get set…husk! Set up a corn husking competition and the kids will not only have a fun time racing–you’ll get your corn prepped faster, too! Thanks to the blog Whatever… for the inspiration!
Which corn activity will you try with the kids? Share with us in the comment section below!
—Abigail Matsumoto
