Creative Activities for Kids? Small Town

[bluegreenturtle]

We live in a small town and frankly there is not much going on in the way of creative activities. We do most of our creative stuff as a family, my 3 yr old doesn't go to daycare or preschool, and I'd like to get her more involved with other kids in a creative setting. We do do community ed classes together, but there isn't much here. I am wondering if any of you have started community kid centered activities, either through community ed or individually, and how it went for you. Any tips or ideas?

[Linda on the move]

We lived in a very small town for awhile when my kids were small. There weren't activities for them. Rather than starting something for the community, I just planned things for them at home. We had circle time with nursery rythms, finger plays, a fairy tale, and then we did a craft. It was a lot of fun.

You could start something similar. If your town has a library, they might be quite open to you starting a "story time" that including a story as well as other things.

[maizy]

I started a bi-lingual baby class. We'd do songs and finger-plays, puppet shows in Spanish and English. I offered the class through community ed. I charged $5 per quarter (because the city wanted me to charge something) It was a fun way to meet people, have interaction with others. I did very little preparation for it.

We also started a local chapter of Roots & Shoots. www.rootsandshoots.org
Founded by the Jane Goodall inst. We do park clean ups, hikes, and other earth related activities for the kids. It is really fun and has brought together like minded families. This weekend we're putting on a International Peace day celebration and flying a 15 foot Peace dove over our town.

I guess my point is; if you think your area is lacking something, start it up. Find something you know how to do and the kids will enjoy.

[bluegreenturtle]

Thanks for the ideas...like I said we do alot of stuff together me and her and dad, but she has no siblings so circle time is kind of hard We have a blast at home and on our own field trips but I'd like to get her involved in the community a little more. She loved the community ed classes we took together so much, I only wish their was more variety.

I have been thinking along the lines of a language class for preschool age kiddos through community ed, as well a science/craft type thing. I just need to get up the courage to take on another project, I suppose if I want my child to have enriching community activities I will have to take an active part. Thanks for the inspiration...I will check out roots and shoots and well.