Looking for some fun, easy and budget-friendly crafts to do with your kids on rainy days?  It is as simple as picking up a few fun ingredients next time you are at the store.

Lisa Kothari, owner of Peppers and Pollywogs, a kids party planning site, and author of Dear Peppers and Pollywogs…What Parents Want to Know About Planning Their Kids’ Parties has provided us with some great activities that can be used both for kids’ parties and rainy day activities. Lisa has also received substantial media coverage for her company and book, including The Washington Times, ChicagoTribune.com, BusinessWeek, Parenting, Boston.com, and dozens of TV stations. I hope you enjoy these activities as much as my kids did!

Apple Smiles
You will need:

• Red Delicious Apples
• Mini Marshmallows
• Creamy Peanut Butter

Cut up apple slices that are thick and have a flat edge.  Smear edge with creamy peanut butter and add marshmallows for teeth.  Try creating a top lip for your smile.  Use another smaller slice of apple with a flat edge and smear with peanut butter again.  Place atop the marshmallows.  Fun snack!

Body Glitter
You will need:

• Small bottles
• Aloe Vera
• Essential Oil
• Glitter

Assemble all of your ingredients into the small bottles.  Shake up well.  Instant body glitter without the big expense!

Little Ocean
You will need:

• Small, empty baby food jar
• Blue food coloring
• Small shells
• Sand

Place a layer of sand at the bottom of the small baby food jar.  Add a thin layer of shells.  Fill the jar with water.  Add two drops of blue food coloring to the jar.  Seal the jar with a hot glue gun.  Shake well!

Edible Bracelets
You will need:

• Round gummy candy, Lifesavers, Cheerios, etc.
• Small licorice rope

String the round holed candy through the licorice rope.  Tie off for a sweet bracelet, necklace, or even for a ring!