DIY in minutes - creative crystals

Sometimes it is hard to find little DIY projects that the little ones can do mostly by themselves (but that doesn't mean you should go and watch the footy while they are doing it). The one we're describing here allows your child to be creative along with making something that they can have on display (until the dog eats it). This little project is great for children aged 3-5 and helps develop their eye-hand coordination and decision making.

Things you will need:
* Six 12 inch pipe cleaners
* 44 to 66 Translucent Tri Beads
* Old Scissors
* 18 inch Ribbon

1) Your child chooses six pipe cleaners, colors of their choice. Then if your child is strong enough, cuts each pipe cleaner in half. You should now have 12 pipe cleaners.

2) Help your child hold 11 pipe cleaners together in a cylindrical shape and wraps the 12th pipe cleaner around the middle tightly. Make sure the pipe cleaners stay in place.

3) Now, your child spreads each of the 22 pipe cleaner ends out creating a ball shape. Once the pipe cleaners are spread apart, your child can place two to three beads on each pipe cleaner end, keeping space between the beads. Last you can tie a ribbon around the middle of the craft and hang in a window or off a ceiling light. The beads typically shine brilliantly with light.

-Dee Jay

If you need more information about how to make this craft or would like to make an exact replica of the one pictured, please visit www.oneminutecrafts.com/PipeCleanerSunburst.html.