Back-to-school is probably the last thing on your mind right now. You’re soaking up slow mornings, messy play, and long summer days. But hear me out – this is exactly why it’s the perfect time to do a simple, meaningful craft that your kids will actually use once school starts.
These air dry clay magnets started as a fun, screen-free summer activity in our home… and quickly turned into something we’ll be using every single day during the school year.
Why We Love This Craft
There are so many kids crafts out there—but this one sticks (literally and figuratively).
- It’s simple and low-prep
- It works for a wide range of ages (my 2-year-old and 7-year-old both loved it)
- It becomes part of your daily routine
- It encourages creativity and independence
And honestly? I love anything that turns a summer activity into something useful later on.
What You’ll Need
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- Air dry clay
- Acrylic paint (check out these paint cups – amazing and cup caddy!
- Paint Brushes
- Magnets
- rolling pin, alphabet cookie cutters + animals!
- Sealant
How to Make Air Dry Clay Magnets
1. Shape Your Clay
Roll out your air dry clay and let your kids create whatever they want—letters, dinosaurs, or abstract designs. In our case we loved using finger prints! Cookie cutters make this super easy for younger kids.
2. Let Them Dry
Leave your shapes out to dry completely. This usually takes 24–48 hours depending on thickness.
3. Paint and Decorate
Once dry, paint your designs with acrylic paint.
4. Seal Them
Use a sealant to protect your special creations!
5. Attach Magnets
We love these self adhesive ones.
And that’s it—simple, creative, and something they’ll be proud of.
How We Use Them for Back-to-School
This is where the magic happens.
These little magnets become part of your everyday routine:
- Holding up school artwork
- Displaying weekly schedules
- Creating a kid-friendly chore chart
- Adding small daily reminders
It’s such a sweet way to bring a piece of summer into the school year.
A Screen-Free Summer Activity That Lasts
If you’re looking for screen-free summer activities for kids, this one checks all the boxes. It’s calm, creative, and doesn’t require a lot of setup.
But more than that – it lasts.
Instead of another craft that gets tucked away or forgotten, this one becomes part of your home. Your kids will see their creations every day, and that sense of pride carries into their routines.
Do It Now, Thank Yourself Later
I know it feels early. But once August hits, everything speeds up.
Doing small things like this now – when you actually have the time – makes the transition into back-to-school feel just a little bit easier.
So next time you have a slow summer afternoon… pull out the clay and make a few magnets.
Your future self will thank you!
