DIY Splash Balls

With it being SO crazy hot in most of the country right now, (seriously, I can't believe that it's been hotter in many places than it has been here in Phoenix!) water play is almost a MUST if you're going to play outside. And, these DIY splash balls are perfect for playing in the water!

 

We actually learned about this fun little craft at Chick-fil-A a few weeks ago. They have family-themed nights on certain days of the summer and it just so happens to that the night we went was "craft night" and made these fun water sponge balls--great for the pool (or the bathtub)! 

I knew they would be perfect for our summer fun playdate, so I headed off to get supplies. I was SO pleased to find all of the supplies I needed at Dollar Tree--this one is not only super easy, but super inexpensive--a true dollar store craft! :)

Here's what you need:

 - sponges and zip ties!

I found 10 packs of colored synthetic sponges and 2 packs of colored cellulose sponges, so decided to do a mix. Then, there were packages of colored zip ties that almost perfectly matched the synthetic sponges. Perfect! The amount I got was enough to do at least 8 balls (making them less than $1/ball)

To make:

1. Cut sponges into approx. 1" strips

 (you will have A LOT of strips)

2. Set up an area to do the craft & make sure 1 year olds are not left unattended.<oops!>

 

 3. Let the kids pick out 9 strips (in this case, 3 cellulose and 6 other the other) and line them up.

 

4. Gather up all the sponge strips and place a zip tie in the center. Pull tie as tight as it will go, then cut off the excess.

 

That's it! Super easy & then the kiddos can have tons of fun splashing around a toy that they made! Love it!

 They were so eager to go try them out and had so much fun learning how the balls worked by soaking up water! There's a good science lesson to be had there too! :)

What are YOUR favorite water play crafts/activities?

*Linked to: Hookin Up with HOH, *I'm Lovin' It , *Get Your Craft On, *Show and Share Saturday