When my kids were young and it was time to plan their summer activities, I wanted to provide them plenty of multisensory opportunities. The “lazy days of summer” are not enough to keep kids happy and stimulated. They are much more engaged and satisfied when they’re busy making, doing, learning and playing. All throughout the summer we would sign up for a variety of organized activities, such as swimming lessons, sport camps, theater programs and art classes. And we stocked the house with lots of fresh new creative play options.

Along with plenty of art and craft materials in the art room cabinets, we had a strong affection for Klutz books. If you haven’t experienced the fun of a Klutz book, head to the store immediately. With titles to entice almost every interest, these books brought hours and hours of delight to our kids, each book full of ideas, how-to instruction and colorful examples of the suggested projects. And the activities all require hands-on making and doing. My girls loved making bracelets, face painting, making paper flowers and so much more. Matt was intrigued by titles that invited his building, art and science interests; making paper airplanes, building pirate ships and action contraptions.

If you haven’t experienced the creative world of Klutz books, take time before school gets out to stock up. You can buy them on Amazon – but seeing them in person is the way to get acquainted if you are new to Klutz. There are a variety of titles, but don’t share them all at once. Buy several and release them one at a time to stimulate new creative adventures throughout the summer.

Bette Fetter Founder and CEO of Young Rembrandts and Author of Being Visual [email protected] Follow Bette on Twitter