Getting kids involved in DIY projects at an early age will help them gain confidence and skills they will put to good use later in life.
12 DIY Projects Your Whole Family Can Do Together
Updated on Aug. 11, 2025
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Create a Fairy Garden
Fairy gardens can be as simple or as complicated as you want them to be, which is great for any age DIYer. “A fairy garden is one idea for turning the garden into an interactive space,” Sarah Pounders of KidsGardening.org says. “By adding accessories for imaginary friends such as houses, tables, chairs, swings and more, you create a way for kids to engage in small world play.” Pounders recommends using “natural materials like rocks, sticks, bark, leaves, pinecones, shells, acorns and flowers” to create a fairy garden space. Find a spot in your yard to add some whimsical fun and see what you can create.
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Build a Bookcase
Teach your young DIYer basic woodworking skills by building a bookshelf together. When you’re done, help them paint it in a fun color to match their bedroom. You can make this simple bookcase in a day.
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Construct a Treehouse
Spend some time in the backyard and construct a treehouse. This is a DIY project you can do together and make it as basic or intricate as you’d like. You may even find you can reuse materials you already have. If not, consider these treehouse kits that have everything you’ll need. These treehouses will knock you out.
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Paint Stones
Here’s a DIY project the little ones will love. Collect some stones (the flatter the better) and paint them. Try painting ladybugs, flowers or get creative! Markers would also work for this project. You can then use them to decorate the garden.
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Build a Cornhole Set
Get ready for your next backyard barbecue by building a cornhole game set. The classic game is easy and inexpensive to make.
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Make a Bird Feeder or Birdhouse
All the colorful birds will want to hang out in your yard when you hang a bird feeder or birdhouse. These are great DIY projects to do with kids because you can teach them simple woodworking skills, and the project isn’t too large or overwhelming.
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Create a LEGO Table
Give your child a designated space for LEGO building by creating a LEGO table. You may be able to complete this DIY project with materials you already have at home. You’ll be amazed by the creativity after checking out these LEGO tables.
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Build a Jewelry Box
Is your child running out of room to store all their jewelry or vacation trinkets? Try building a DIY jewelry box or organizer together. There are lots of plans available online to choose from. Get kids started in DIY with these simple tips.
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Make Curtains
Get your little DIYer involved in decorating his or her room. Try making a set of curtains together, which will help them learn basic sewing and measuring skills. Then peruse these awesome ideas for window treatments.
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Try String Art
String art is a fun project for all ages. Your child will get familiar with using a hammer and nails and you can get creative in the process. Pros offer their top tips for getting kids working with tools.
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Construct a Toy Box
For a little bigger DIY project you can do together, build a toy storage system. This is a great project since it can grow with your child, whether for storing small toys or sports equipment. This DIY toy storage bin is perfect for families on the go.
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Make a Terrarium
A terrarium is the perfect project for getting your young DIYer interested in gardening. While they don’t require much upkeep, terrariums are fun and easy to build. Here are 12 tips for making a DIY terrarium.
FAQ
Why are DIY projects good for kids?
DIY projects help kids develop fine motor skills and confidence while flexing their creativity and imagination.
What age is appropriate to start DIY projects?
With age-appropriate materials and plenty of adult supervision, kids as young as two or three can complete DIY projects. Lane has worked with kids as young as three, “using potato peelers to whittle sticks,” but it really will depend on your confidence in your child’s ability to follow directions and stay safe.
About the Experts
- Sarah Pounders is an Educational Specialist at KidsGardening.org in Vermont.
- Sarah Lane is Program Director at KidsGardening.org, with prior experience as a Nature School Teacher at Ferncliff Camp and Conference Center.
