Not-so-lazy Susan

What do you get when you take an old IKEA lazy susan, add some recycled jars, and toss in a bunch of art supplies and writing utensils?

 

a colorful buffet for kids with bright ideas...

                                        a carousel of creativity!

 

I've been putting this dizzying array of art and writing supplies (along with a big pile of paper) in the middle of the kitchen table most evenings lately, usually when I'm cooking dinner. It seems to draw Jack to the table (excuse the pun) and inspire some end-of-the-day self-expression.

 

He likes that he has a big selection of self-serve materials, and I like that everything's tidy and not at all overwhelming.

 

I also love that I can easily slip it into a kitchen cabinet when we're done using it. The lazy susan makes it super-simple to retrieve specific things as needed ("I need a red crayon to color a fire truck!"). And tucking it out of sight when it's not in use is a surefire way to peak a child's attention once it re-emerges. When you keep stuff out in the open all of the time, it becomes like wallpaper, fading into the background. But pull this out of the cupboard and just watch as your kid gives drawing and writing a whirl!

Who could resist?

Comments

[Amanda Perko]

I did this one too, I used an old set of mugs we aren't using and they're heavy enough and low enough that they don't tip off- and they aren't fixed so the boys can just pull off one and use just the markers. I love it, thanks for the idea!

[Green Mamma]

Genius!

[sara]

I know that this wasn't the point of the entry, but I am IN LOVE with your fruit jars! Where did you find those?! And, are they only used for fruit, or does it change according to the stuff you have? I really want to see your whole kitchen now. ;)

[Aimee]

We love this too! It will be featured in DIY Literacy Projects. Stop by and visit sometime. Thanks for sharing.

[Debi]

I'm going out to the garage right now and getting some jars. I don't have the lazy susan yet, but I'm not worried! We'll find a way! I love how visible it is (when it's out) just begging to be used :) For the time being, I may use a strong box to put them in with a lid.

Thanks a ton!!