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Clay Birdhouse

Animals aren't the only ones who love mud. Get dirty building a clay birdhouse to hang in your yard.

Average Rating:	1 2 3 4 5
Participant Age:	7 to 12, 12 and up
Approximate Cost:	$10 to $100
Duration:	Over an hour
Difficulty:	1 2 3 4 5
Physical Challenge:	1 2 3 4 5

Balloon
Self-hardening clay
Water-based clear sealer
Paintbrush
Rolling pin
Kitchen spoon
3-foot piece of heavy string
Water

Blow Up Balloon

Blow up a balloon so it is about 8 inches long.

Prepare Balloon for Clay

Draw a circle (1 1/4 inch diameter) about six inches from the bottom of the balloon. Tie the string around the knot that's holding the air in the balloon.

Roll Out Clay

Use the rolling pin to roll out two large pieces of clay that are about 1/4 inch thick.

Wrap Clay Around Balloon

Wrap the two pieces of clay around the balloon, leaving a space around the hole that you've drawn. Use the back of a spoon and some water to smooth out the seams. Use extra clay to add decorative elements, if desired.

Let Birdhouse Dry

Let air dry for several days. Pop the balloon. Then apply a coat of water-based clear sealer to the outside of the birdhouse. Let dry.
Hang your birdhouse from a tree branch in your yard. Enjoy watching its new occupants.

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Paint Pumpkin Prints

Use a large carrot to make happy pumpkin paintings.
Create Seed Pod Creatures

Gather seeds in all shapes and sizes, then glue them together into fanciful creatures.
Make a Nature Mobile

Hang your favorite nature items from a mobile and watch them slowly spin around.
Design a Constellation

Design your own constellation with stickers and black paper.
Make Ladybugs You Can EAT!

These strawberry ladybugs are a sweet summer treat. They're easy to make--and fun to eat!

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