Its almost time to start planning for school in the fall. In addition to the regular back-to-school supplies that your child will need for school, consider creating a stash of extra supplies especially for special projects, reports and extra-credit assignments. Here's a list to get you started:

• Old Magazines-Great for making collages
• Poster Board
• Mod-Podge - The all-purpose glue and adhesive is great for decoupage, assembling collages and makes a great sealant.
• Texture Paint -Check out Plaid's new texture paint, great for making models, maps and more.
• Crayons
• Permanent Markers
• Chalkboard Paint -Makes any surface a chalkboard-writing surface.
• Report Covers-Keep a stash so you don't have to purchase them each time a report is due.
• Construction Paper
• empty bottles and containers of various shapes

Planning a party for your little one?
Birthday parties are a great opportunity to express your creativity and to provide
a one-of-a-kind party around your child's favorite theme. Plus, you can save money by
crafting banners, goodie bags, invitations, party activities, gifts and more.
One of our favorite magazines, Family Fun has a great listing of party themes on their website
as well as spectacular cake ideas. Also, check out Plaid's gallery of party craft ideas.
Here are some of our favorite themes:

• Safari Party -Use animal stencils and stamps to create your own jungle, safari or rainforest party.
  Let kids create animal masks from paper plates for a fun party activity.
• Blast Off!- Create a space-themed party using boxes to make life-sized space ships
  and smaller discarded household containers for rocket ship table settings.
• Runway- Great for your favorite girly-girl. Use fun motifs like spotlights, sunglasses, cell phones
  and handbags for invitations; Create your own runway and let the girls play dress up!
• Summer Fun- Cute stamps featuring shells and sea themes make great designs for table decorations.
  Use small pails for treats instead of goody bags.

Celebrate Independence Day at a whole new level this year!  This windsock will be a breeze to make and when you're finished be sure to let it soar free in the wind for everyone to see!