7 Fun Craft Activities for Neurodiverse Adults

Craft activities can be a wonderful way to help neurodiverse individuals engage, learn and bond. These activities are easy to set up and they provide many opportunities for self-expression, sensory stimulation, and skill development. We’ve included many of our residents’ favorite activities and some extras that we haven’t done in a while but want to! With that, here are 16 fun craft activities geared towards neurodiverse individuals of varying abilities:

Sensory Bottles

Create sensory bottles filled with colorful liquids, glitter, and small objects. Seal them tightly, and individuals can shake, twist, and observe the mesmerizing effects. Sensory bottles can be a great tool for calming individuals before and after episodes of increased anxiety, so they’re always handy to have around.

Instructions

1. Gather your materials:

• Empty water bottle or other clear plastic container with a tight-fitting lid

• Clear glue or glycerin to slow down the movement of objects inside

• Food coloring or liquid watercolors (optional, for adding color)

• Glitter or confetti

• Small plastic toys or figurines, beads or buttons, sequins

• Hot glue gun or waterproof adhesive to secure the lid and prevent leaks

• Funnel to pour liquid into the bottle (optional)

2. Prepare the bottle: Remove any labels or stickers that might be on the bottle. Remove the lid and set it aside.

3. Choose your sensory materials: Decide on the combination of sensory items you want to include in your bottle. This could be a mix of colors, shapes, textures, and sounds.

4. Add the items: Begin by filling the bottle about one-third full with water. If desired, you can add a few drops of food coloring to the water to add more visual appeal. Then add the desired sensory items into the bottle. You can add as little or as much as you like, but make sure there is enough space left for the items to move and shift around.

5. Add your solution: If you want to add special effects to your sensory bottle, such as glitter swirling or slow-moving bubbles, you can add clear glue mixed with water, baby oil, or corn syrup. Only add a small amount, as too much liquid can make the items clump together.

6. Shake and test: Give the sensory bottle a gentle shake, turn it upside down. If you're happy with the results, your sensory bottle is ready to glue closed!

7. Secure the lid: Once you have added all the desired sensory items and liquid, make sure the opening of the bottle is dry and add glue to the inside of the lid to secure it tight.

Texture Collages

Texture collages are a great way to explore different tactile and visual sensations. Gather a variety of textured materials like fabric, ribbons, felt, etc. Support your resident artist create collages using these materials.

Instructions:
1. Gather your materials: Start by collecting a variety of textured materials such as fabric scraps, buttons, beads, ribbons, tissue paper, feathers, and any other items with interesting textures that you find appealing.

2. Prepare your canvas: Choose a sturdy canvas or thick cardboard as your base. Cut it to your desired size, making sure it's large enough to accommodate the textures you'll be using.

3. Plan your design: There are two ways of doing this. Firstly, you can throw planning to the wind and create as you go. If the artist is more of a planner: before gluing anything down, lay out your materials on the canvas in different arrangements to experiment with different compositions. Remember to play around with colors, shapes, and textures to create an appealing design.

4. Apply a base coat: To provide a colorful background for your collage, you can paint the canvas with a layer of acrylic or craft paint in a color that complements your materials. This step is entirely optional.

5. Start gluing: Once your base coat is dry (if you applied one), begin adding your textured materials to the canvas. Use a strong adhesive glue, such as a glue gun or craft glue, to attach each piece securely.

6. Experiment with layering: Don't be afraid to overlap materials or layer them on top of each other to add depth and dimension to your collage. This can create visually appealing textures and make your artwork more interesting.

7. Finishing touches: Once you're satisfied with the placement of all your materials, let the glue dry completely. At this point, you can go one step further and add additional elements, such as paint splatters or rhinestones, for example.

9. Display and enjoy: Once the glue is fully dry, your texture collage is ready to be displayed! Place it in a frame, hang it on the wall, or prop it up on a shelf to showcase your creation!

String Art

Using a piece of cardboard, nails, and colorful string, create intricate patterns by wrapping the string around the nails.

String art is a creative and visually appealing form of artwork that involves weaving string or thread around nails positioned on a board. It's a great way to work on fine motor skills.

Instructions
1. Gather the required materials:

• A wooden board (size and shape of your choice)

• Nails (about 1 inch in length)

• Hammer

• Pattern or design template

• Colored string or embroidery floss

• Scissors

• Pencil or chalk

2. Prepare the wooden board:

• Choose a smooth wooden board of your desired size and shape.

• Sand any rough edges or surfaces to create a clean canvas for your string art.

• Optionally, apply a coat of paint or stain to enhance the visual appeal of your artwork, making sure to wait for it to dry completely before proceeding.

3. Select a pattern or design:

• Find a pattern or design template that appeals to you. You can either draw one yourself or find one online.

• Resize the design according to the size of your board, ensuring it fits well within the boundaries.

4. Transfer the design onto the board:

• Place the design over the wooden board and secure it using tape or small weights to prevent shifting during the tracing process.

• Trace the lines of the design onto the board using a pencil or chalk. Press firmly to ensure clear lines are left on the wood.

5. Mark the nail placement:

• Carefully mark the points on your traced design where the nails will be placed. These marks will serve as guides for hammering in the nails.

• Space the marks evenly to ensure balanced tension for the string later on.

• The distance between each mark depends on the complexity of your design and personal preference. Generally, spacing between 0.5 to 1 inch works well.

6. Hammer in the nails:

• Place the first nail on one of the marked points and carefully hammer it into the wood, leaving about ½ inch of the nail exposed.

• Continue hammering in the nails on all the marked points, ensuring they are perpendicular to the board.

• Leave enough space between each nail to easily wrap the string without overlapping or tangling it.

7. Remove the design template:

• Once all the nails are securely in place, remove the design template or pattern from the board, revealing the visible nail outlines.

8. Choose your string:

• Select colored string, thread or embroidery floss that complements your design and matches your artistic vision.

• Cut a piece of string long enough to work with comfortably but not too long, to avoid tangles.

9. Begin stringing:

• Tie one end of the string securely around one nail, ensuring it does not slip off.

• Start weaving and crisscrossing the string around the nails, following the lines of your pattern or creating your own unique design.

• Experiment with different patterns, colors, and tension to achieve the desired effect.

10. Finishing touches:

• After completing the stringing process, wrap the remaining thread around one of the nails and tie it to the nail.

Paper Plate Masks

Decorate paper plates to make masks. You can use markers, stickers, yarn, and other craft supplies to create unique designs.

Instructions for creating paper plate face masks:

1. Gather all the materials needed for creating the paper plate face masks:

• Paper plates

• Scissors

• Markers or crayons

• String or elastic

• Hole punch (optional)

• Glue or tape

2. Take one paper plate and draw the outline of a face shape using a marker or crayon. Make sure the face shape covers the entire plate.

3. Once you have drawn the face shape, carefully cut along the outline using a pair of scissors. Be sure to cut out eye holes as well.

4. Decorate the face mask by coloring it with markers or crayons. You can get creative and draw different facial features such as nose and mouth. Add any additional details, patterns, or designs as desired.

5. On both sides of the paper plate face mask, make two small holes using a hole punch. These holes will serve as attachment points for the string or elastic.

6. Measure a piece of string or elastic that is long enough to fit comfortably around your head. Cut the string or elastic to the appropriate length.

7. Take one end of the string or elastic and thread it through one of the holes on the paper plate face mask. Tie a knot to secure it in place. Repeat this step on the other side of the mask with the other end of the string or elastic.

8. Try on the paper plate face mask by placing it over your face. Adjust the string or elastic as needed to ensure a snug and comfortable fit.

9. If the string or elastic feels loose, you can add small pieces of tape or glue to the holes on the mask to secure it better.

10. Once you are satisfied with the fit, your paper plate face mask is ready to be used! Wear it as a fun and creative accessory or use it for a costume!

Tie-Dye T-Shirts

Set up a tie-dye station with different colored dyes. Help individuals create colorful tie-dye patterns on white t-shirts.Step-by-Step Guide: Creating Tie-Dye T-ShirtsTie-dye is a fun and creative way to transform plain t-shirts into vibrant and unique works of art. To create your own tie-dye t-shirts, follow these step-by-step instructions:
1. Gather your materials: Start by gathering all the necessary materials.

To tie-dye t-shirts, you will need:

• Plain cotton t-shirts

• Fabric dye in various colors

• Rubber bands

• Plastic squeeze bottles or spray bottles

• Protective gloves

• Plastic table covers or garbage bags to protect your work area

• A large bucket or sink for rinsing.

2. Prepare your work area: Cover your work area with plastic table covers or garbage bags to protect from dye spills and stains. Choose a well-ventilated space, preferably outdoors.

3. Prepare your t-shirt: Start by soaking your plain t-shirt in warm water. This will help the dye to adhere evenly. Squeeze out the excess water, but the shirt should still be damp.

4. Choose your design: Decide on the tie-dye design you want. Some popular designs include spiral, bullseye, crumple, and stripes. You can find tutorials online or get creative and invent your own design!

5. Create the tie-dye pattern: Lay your damp t-shirt flat on your work surface. Pinch the fabric at the center of where you want the design to be and twist it clockwise or counterclockwise into a spiral. Use rubber bands to secure the twisted shirt into your desired pattern. Remember, the areas under the rubber bands will remain undyed (if the bands are tight enough!).

6. Prepare the dye: Following the instructions on your fabric dye, mix the dye colors in separate plastic squeeze bottles or spray bottles. Shake well to ensure colors are evenly mixed.

7. Apply the dye: With gloves on, carefully apply the dye to different sections of the twisted t-shirt. Use different colors and have fun experimenting with different patterns. Apply the dye generously, saturating the fabric to allow the colors to blend and create vibrant designs.

8. Let the dye set: Once you have applied the dye, carefully place the dyed t-shirt into a sealable plastic bag or cover it with plastic wrap. Allow it to sit for at least 6-8 hours to allow the dye to set and penetrate the fabric.

9. Rinse the t-shirt: After the dye has set, remove the rubber bands and rinse the t-shirt under cold water. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear, ensuring all excess dye is removed. You can use gloves to protect your hands during the rinsing process.

10. Dry and set the colors: Finally, hang the rinsed t-shirt to dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Once it is dry, follow the instructions included with your fabric dye to set the colors. Typically, this involves washing the t-shirt in cold water with a small amount of laundry detergent and tumble drying or air drying it again.

Rock Painting

Decorate smooth rocks with acrylic paint and markers. Rocks can be turned into colorful creatures, inspirational words, or garden markers. You can also glue on elements such as rhinestones or leaves.

Instructions
1. Gather Supplies: Collect all the necessary supplies for rock painting like a rock star:

• Smooth rocks

• Acrylic paints

• Paintbrushes

• Water cup

• Palette or paper plate

• Paint pens (optional)

• Protective sealant (optional)

2. Find, clean and Prepare the Rocks: Thoroughly clean the rocks to remove any dirt or debris. Rinse them with water and let them air dry completely.

3. Choose a Design: Decide on the design or pattern you want to paint on your rocks. You can draw inspiration from nature, animals, patterns, or even create your own unique designs. You can also look up ideas online for inspiration.

4. Paint your Design: Use various sizes of paintbrushes and acrylic paints to paint your design on the rocks. Start by painting the larger areas first, gradually adding details and intricate elements. Allow the paint to dry between each layer or color if you are working with multiple shades.

8. Add Details and Highlights: After the main design is complete, use smaller paintbrushes or paint pens to add finer details or highlights to your painted rock. This step can really bring your design to life and make it more visually appealing.

9. Let the Paint Dry: Allow the paint on the rocks to dry completely. This is particularly important before moving on to the next step or adding any additional layers of paint.

10. Protective Sealant (Optional): To preserve and protect your painted rocks, you can apply a protective sealant. Choose a spray or brush-on sealant specifically designed for outdoor use. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to apply an even coat on your rocks. This will help protect against water, UV rays, and general wear and tear.

11. Display or Gift: Once the sealant is dry, your painted rocks are ready to be displayed or gifted. You can arrange them in your garden, place them in a jar, or hide them for others to find and enjoy. Sharing your creativity with others can be a rewarding experience.

Bonus Note: With this method, you can also create Story Stones by painting images on smooth stones to represent characters, objects, or scenes from a story. Use these story stones to inspire creative storytelling.

Homemade Playdough

Homemade playdough is one of the best tactile experiences you can provide, it can also be soothing for some. Instead of buying store-bought playdough, you can make your own at home with just a few simple ingredients.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all the necessary materials and ingredients before starting the process.

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup of salt

• 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar

• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

• Food coloring (optional)

• 1 1/2 cups of boiling water

• Mixing bowl

• Spoon or spatula

• Plastic wrap or an airtight container for storage

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and cream of tartar. Stir them together using a spoon or spatula until well blended.

3. Add the Vegetable Oil: Pour the vegetable oil into the mixing bowl with the dry ingredients. Incorporate the oil into the mixture by stirring it well. The oil will add moisture to the playdough and help prevent it from drying out.

4. Optional: Add Food Coloring: If you wish to have colored playdough, you can add a few drops of food coloring into the mixing bowl. Stir the food coloring into the mixture until it is evenly distributed.

5. Pour in the Boiling Water: Carefully add the boiling water to the mixture in the mixing bowl. Stir the mixture continuously until it starts to form a ball-like consistency.

6. Knead the Playdough: Once the playdough begins to come together, transfer it onto a clean and lightly floured surface. Once it’s no longer hot to the touch, begin kneading the dough with your hands. You may need to knead the dough for around 5-10 minutes until it becomes soft and smooth.

7. Cool and Store: Allow the playdough to cool down completely before storing it. Once it's cool, divide it into smaller portions and wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or store them in airtight containers. This will keep the playdough fresh and usable for a longer period.

Note: You can always experiment by adding different scents, glitters, or textures to make the playdough even more fun!

Bonus: Nature Crafts

Collect leaves, twigs, and pinecones during a nature walk. Use these items to create natural-themed crafts, such as leaf rubbings or pinecone bird feeders.