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.
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
Love it! Nice and easy.
I made these a few years ago for Jack’s birthday — SO fun!
I LOVE these!!
Thanks for linking up! I featured your post in my wrap up http://tidymom.net/2011/great-ideas-5/
Have a fabulous weekend!
What a great idea! I’m going to make these! I found your link from tidymom above.
These look so fun! Thanks for sharing.
I love these! I’d love if you would join us over at Sew Woodsy and link up this project!
Very fun! Would love for you to come share them at our Outdoor Play linky too!
http://mamapeapod.blogspot.com/2011/07/outdoor-play-linky-learning-new-skills.html
My kids love to toss water bombs all summer long! Sometimes, they even play tag with them.
oh my! how cool are these splash balls! love them!
gail
this is such a great idea Sara! So doing this!