Building Fantasy Worlds with Crafty Creativity: Inspired by Where the Wild Things Are*

Introduction
Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are has captured the imaginations of young readers for generations, bringing them into a magical world of “wild things” and endless possibilities. This blog will guide parents in turning this timeless story into a hands-on adventure by building their own wild worlds and creatures with children. Craft activities inspired by the book help foster creativity, self-expression, and joyful family time, transforming imagination into reality.

Craft Activity Ideas: Building Your Own “Wild World”

Creating a “wild world” at home is a magical way to connect children with the story’s themes of exploration and fantasy. Using simple craft supplies, parents and kids can make monster masks, costume accessories, and even build a fort or tent to replicate Max’s magical journey.

Monster Masks and Costumes

• Supplies Needed: Paper plates, markers, crayons, construction paper, glue, elastic strings, and any other crafty bits for decoration (feathers, sequins, etc.).
• Instructions: Have kids design their own “wild creature” masks inspired by the “wild things” in the book. They can draw and color their masks, add horns, googly eyes, or even decorate with paper “fur” to bring their creatures to life.

Build a “Wild Rumpus” Tent or Fort
Create a cozy reading and play area inspired by Max’s journey to the wild forest.

• Instructions: Use pillows, blankets, and a little imagination to build a fort. Hang paper vines or leafy garlands for a jungle effect. Kids can crawl into their magical space to read or play out scenes from the book.

DIY “Wild Creatures”
Let kids unleash their creativity by building their own creatures.

• Supplies Needed: Paper, recycled materials (toilet paper rolls, egg cartons), pipe cleaners, glue, paint, etc.
• Instructions: Help children design and assemble their creatures, encouraging them to think of names and stories for each one. They can paint them in bold colors and add details like wings, claws, or tails.

Activity Tips for Parents: Encouraging Creativity and Self-Expression

1. Let Kids Lead
   Give children freedom to design their masks or creatures however they like. Their wild worlds are their own, so if they want a creature with three eyes and rainbow fur, let their imaginations run free.
2. Role-Play Together
   Take on the roles of “wild things” with your children. Growl, dance, and join in a “wild rumpus” to help the story come alive, allowing kids to experience storytelling and creativity with a hands-on approach.
3. Ask Questions to Expand Their Imagination
   Encourage kids to describe their creations. Ask questions like, “What is your creature’s name?” or “What adventures does your wild thing go on?” This builds storytelling skills and helps children think about character and narrative.

Thinking Questions for Kids

1. If you could go on an adventure like Max, where would you go?
   This question lets children imagine their own fantasy worlds, inspired by the wild adventure in the book.
2. What makes your wild creature special?
   This helps kids think about character details and encourages them to feel proud of their creations.
3. How would you set up your own “wild rumpus”?
   This question allows kids to visualize their own magical gathering, fueling imaginative play.

Interactive Activity: Host a “Wild Rumpus” Party

Celebrate the finished crafts with a “Wild Rumpus” party! Children can wear their masks, dance around, and even share the stories they’ve invented for their creatures.

These activities encourage creative exploration, boost self-expression, and make the journey through Where the Wild Things Are a truly interactive adventure for parents and kids alike. Let the wild rumpus begin!