Welcome to Day 16 of the Children’s Creative Summer Challenge! Today’s activity is all about celebrating individuality and imagination. We’re inviting children to create their very own self-portrait craft — but with a twist. Instead of aiming for perfection or sticking to traditional techniques, this challenge encourages kids to express themselves freely.
Whether they choose to draw, paint, collage, or even mix materials, the only rule is: make it your way, in your style!
Self-portraits are more than just a fun craft. They’re an opportunity for children to:
Build self-awareness
Explore different artistic techniques
Celebrate what makes them unique
Gain confidence in their creative expression
What You’ll Need:
One of the best parts about today’s challenge is that it can be done with whatever you already have at home. Here are some ideas:
Paper or canvas
Pencils, pens, or crayons
Paints (watercolour, acrylic, or poster paint)
Collage materials (magazines, coloured paper, fabrics)
Glue and scissors
A mirror (optional, for reference)
Encourage your child to mix and match materials to bring out their personal style.
How to Create a Self-Portrait
Set the Scene
Give your child a comfortable space and lay out all the materials. A mirror can be helpful, but remind them that this is about expression, not accuracy.Start with the Basics
Ask your child to think about how they want to represent themselves. Do they want it to be realistic, cartoon-like, abstract, or even fantastical?Draw or Paint the Outline
Using light strokes, encourage them to sketch the basic face shape. If they’d rather skip this step and dive straight into paint or collage, that’s fine too!Add Details
Let them focus on the details they love about themselves — maybe their curly hair, freckles, favourite hairstyle, or even accessories like glasses or hats.Make It Personal
This is where creativity shines. Kids can use bold colours, patterns, or even symbols that represent their personality. For example, a child who loves animals might include paw prints, while another might surround their portrait with stars and planets.Finish with Flair
Once the portrait feels complete, set it aside to dry (if paint or glue is used). Then display it proudly!
Creative Twist Ideas
If your child enjoys experimenting, here are some playful variations:
Abstract Style: Use only shapes and colours instead of realistic features.
Collage Portrait: Cut out magazine clippings or coloured paper to build the portrait.
Fantasy Version: Encourage them to draw themselves as a superhero, astronaut, or magical creature.
Emotion Portrait: Express a feeling — happy, excited, calm — through colours and facial expressions.
Why Self-Portraits Are So Valuable
Self-portraits are more than just fun. They can help children:
Boost self-confidence by celebrating their individuality
Improve observation and drawing skills
Develop emotional expression through art
Explore new creative techniques
Most importantly, self-portraits show children that there’s no right or wrong way to be creative.
📸 Share Your Self-Portrait!
We’d love to see what your creative kids come up with for Day 16! Share a photo of their self-portrait on our social media pages. Every share brings inspiration to others in the challenge — and it’s a wonderful way to celebrate your child’s unique creativity. Pop a picture under the Facebook comment for day 16 or tag us on Instagram/ TikTok
🎥 Need more ideas? Head over to our YouTube Channel and subscribe for lots more creative “How To” videos.
Are you looking for local classes, parties or creative events for children or adults?
Discover local classes, after school clubs holiday camps or adult craft events in your local area
If you are looking for a bespoke party or event contact your local Creation Station leader.
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