Weekends are a perfect time to slow down and spend quality time with your children. One of the most meaningful ways to do this? Art. Creating something together not only encourages creativity but also strengthens the bond between parent and child.
Whether your child is a toddler, a curious 7-year-old, or an imaginative pre-teen, there’s always a way to tailor the project to suit their age and interests. Plus, you don’t need to be a professional artist—just a little time, some basic supplies, and a willingness to create together.
Here are 9 fun and engaging parent–child art projects you can try this weekend, either at home or at a nearby art studio.
1. Painted Rock Creatures
A walk outside can become the start of an art project. Collect smooth stones from the park or garden, then bring them home to turn into adorable rock creatures.
What you need: Acrylic paint, paintbrushes, googly eyes (optional), glue
Why it’s great: It mixes outdoor play with indoor creativity. Kids can turn their rocks into animals, monsters, or even family portraits.
2. Collage Self-Portraits
Grab old magazines, newspapers, coloured paper, and glue to create a one-of-a-kind self-portrait collage. Parents and children can make their own or work on one together.
What you need: Scissors, glue, paper, magazines, markers
Why it’s great: This project builds confidence and self-expression while improving cutting and pasting skills.
3. Handprint Family Tree
Trace and cut out handprints of each family member to build a colourful handprint tree. Glue the handprints as the leaves and label them with names.
What you need: Construction paper, glue, markers, scissors
Why it’s great: It’s a sentimental project that can be framed or hung on the fridge as a reminder of your family bond.
4. Watercolor Resist Art
This magical technique uses crayons to “resist” watercolour paint. Draw with white crayons on paper, then paint over with watercolour to reveal hidden designs.
What you need: Watercolour paint, white crayon, thick paper
Why it’s great: The surprise effect is exciting for children and gives a beautiful result with minimal effort.
5. Mosaic Coasters
Create colourful coasters using mosaic tiles or small pieces of coloured paper. This hands-on project teaches focus and patience—while making something useful.
What you need: Wooden or cork coasters, glue, mosaic tiles or paper, sealant
Why it’s great: Children love seeing their artwork turned into something functional they can use or gift.
6. Storybook Illustration Challenge
Choose your child’s favourite story and illustrate a scene together. You can split roles—one draws, the other colours, or take turns adding details.
What you need: Sketchbooks or paper, pencils, coloured pencils or markers
Why it’s great: It encourages storytelling and imagination, and you get to see how your child visualises stories.
7. Recycled Craft Creations
Turn old boxes, toilet rolls, bottle caps, and more into sculptures, animals, or pretend-play items like binoculars or robots.
What you need: Clean recyclables, tape, glue, paint, scissors
Why it’s great: It’s eco-friendly, budget-conscious, and encourages creativity in using what you already have.
8. Canvas Painting Together
Get a large canvas and work together on a single painting. You could divide it into sections or collaborate freely on the entire space.
What you need: Canvas, acrylic paint, brushes
Why it’s great: The end result is a shared creation you can hang in your home. It’s also a calming, mess-friendly project if done with care.
9. Visit an Art Jamming Studio
If you want a change of scene from home, consider booking a weekend slot at an art jamming studio. These places provide all the materials and guidance you need for a memorable session.
Why it’s great: It removes the setup and cleanup stress. Parents and children get a creative environment with professional support, making the experience more special.
Studios like Art Journey in Singapore offer parent–child sessions designed to make creativity fun and stress-free. From mosaic art to guided painting, their workshops provide bonding opportunities and hands-on learning for all ages.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Weekend Art Projects
- Let your child lead: Encourage them to take the creative lead whenever possible.
- Focus on the process, not the result: It’s about spending time together, not perfection.
- Display their work: Hang up the finished project—it shows you value their creativity.
- Create a weekend art corner: Set up a small space at home with basic supplies ready to go.