Below are some quick tips which will allow you and your child to have an enjoyable experience where the kiddies can explore indepdently, get creative and have fun while not leaving you with lots of mess to clean up afterwards.
Keep it simple
Pick a simple task with 3-5 steps max. This will help to keep the child interested and engaged in the activity. Identify the aspects of the craft that the kiddies can do themselves and allow them this independence. Show the child what to do and then allow them to do it- giving hand over hand help to get them started if needed.
Prepare for Mess
Allow the kiddies to explore their creativity skills. In order to do this and not have your house upside down preparation is key. Designate an area for art and craft. Use black bags or an old blanket and tape it to the surface. When the activity is finished simply take up the tap and put all the mess straight in the bin or hang the surface up in your shed to dry out so that you can use it again the next time you are doing art and craft or messy play. Ensure the kiddies are in old clothes that they can get dirty.
Practice life skills
Have the child wash his/her hands after the activity and teach them how to wash off the paint/materials. Bring them outside to wash out the paint trays with water. (this is an extra fun activity for kiddies who like water play)
Example
Always have an example of the activity to show the kiddies. They need something to get inspiration from. Allow them to create their own version but it is nice for them to see what the activity is and this is also a great skill to be working on for group activities in school.