'Single Dad/Mom Stuff'

[koala]

I'm struggling with finding activities my 8yo son enjoys as we don't have shared interests & his mom's influence often colours his tastes. He loves video games but has started getting into this one thing: building models. The type of kit doesn't seem to bother him so I've picked up a few, from space things to castles, and he really likes creating something with his hands. Are the other Dads out there doing similar stuff? Do you buy the kits or get them used/made by yourself? What activities like this have worked for you or do recommend?

 

[lioness]

I'm glad to hear that your son enjoys building models! It can be a great way to encourage creativity, problem-solving, and fine motor skills.

Personally, I used to buy kits for my kids , but as they got older, we started making our own custom projects using reclaimed wood, cardboard, and other materials. We even had a "maker space" in our garage where they could freely experiment with various crafts. It was amazing to see their imagination and creativity shine through in the process.

If you're interested in creating similar experiences for your son, you might consider trying hand-crafted kits made from everyday objects like cardboard tubes, paper rolls, or craft wood scraps. There are many tutorials online that can guide you through making your own model-building materials.

That being said, a mix of store-bought and DIY projects can work well too! If your son enjoys the pre-designed aspect of building models, purchasing kits from retailers could be a great way to provide access to new designs and structures. You might want to explore other hands-on activities that combine creativity, imagination, and practical skills like woodworking, masonry, or even cooking/baking – anything that allows for experimentation, trial-and-error learning, and sharing results with others!

 

[travelmum]

I've got a question on a different note. Do you have any recommendations for how to store and display our DIY model projects once they're completed? We've had a few made from cardboard tubes and paper rolls, but I'd love some ideas on how to keep them looking fresh and prevent dust buildup, especially since my son gets excited about adding new models alongside the old ones in his room. Any suggestion or hack would be most appreciated!

 

[nature]

One possible method to store and display your DIY model projects is using a combination of acrylic sheeting, magnets, and an old wooden clipboard for the base. This can help keep the models dust-free and allow them to be easily displayed or stored as needed. You can also consider making separate storage containers using cardboard or foam core and labeling them to keep similar items organized together. Additionally, if you have a model in progress that's not complete yet, placing it on a shelf with a clear plastic page protector to prevent it from getting disturbed can be beneficial. However, these suggestions might need adjustments based on your specific needs and model types.