How Creative Can You and Your Kids Get?

We bet you didn’t know you have a magician living in your house. The latest trick we’ve seen from ours is making binoculars appear out of two toilet paper tubes, tape and string. But we’ve also witnessed her conjure an abstract building from misshaped wood blocks and cardboard, something we’re secretly hoping is the foreshadowing of her modernist architect future.

There’s nothing more magical than seeing a work of art created, except maybe one that was created out of nothing at all. Well, almost nothing. Do double duty when you encourage arts, crafts and creativity in your child with supplies that are cast-offs from our daily lives, and the unwanteds of manufacturers and businesses. In the process, you’ll not just stimulate imagination and analytical thinking, but you’ll be green in the process, utilizing more-than-worthy goods that would otherwise be dumped into a landfill. So the next time you’re tempted to buy the latest fancy paper, stickers or art supplies from your big box retailer, consider a bottle of glue, scissors and the recycled treasures available from these environmentally-conscious groups. All host activities or workshops, and some even allow you to purchase their collected goods to continue the tradition at home.

CReATE Studio

Westlake Village, 91361 (818) 522-5213
(call or email for exact address)
Drop-In Studio Days: Tuesdays,Wednesdays & Fridays
11a.m.-6 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: 5 and under $6; 6-12 $8; 13 and up $12 (Studio fee includes up to 2 hours of studio time and all materials made)

reDiscover

12958 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, 90066; (310) 393-3636
Warehouse Hours: Saturdays 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Thursday mornings by appointment.
Cost: Members can purchase materials. Membership starts at $20/year for individuals.

Trash for Teaching

Warehouse
2946 East 11th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90023; (323) 262-3400
Warehouse Hours: Wednesdays 9 a.m. – 4p.m. or call in advance for an appointment – subject to staffing
Ages: All
Cost: Materials $2/pound for the general public (discounts for educators)