Cheap fun with throwaways

It’s not that I don’t like throwing things out, but what might pass for trash could be terrific cheap supplies for kids this summer. You simply have to look at things through different glasses. Think with your children about how you can use ordinary things for something other than their intended use. Suddenly the most mundane, disposable objects take on amazing possibilities.

Place the big stuff in a giant box and call it the “Kids’ Creative Recycling Bin.” Sort out the small doodah stuff into a small box or designated drawer that they’ll know as “Project Parts.”To get yourself started, take a look at the following list, then start saving.

BLOOPER FAMILY PHOTOS: Make silly minicollages and send them off with a letter when kids are away at summer camp.

BROWN PAPER GROCERY BAGS: Print colorful gift-wrap with stamps dipped in paint.

BUTTONS AND LACE OFF OLD CLOTHES: Decorate anything from napkin rings to picture frames to summer T-shirts and shorts.

DENIM POCKETS FROM WORN-OUT JEANS: Glue anywhere for an odds-and-ends catchall.

PINE CONES AND ACORNS: Glue together with sticks, stones and twigs to make gnomes and forest creatures for pretend play.