Children's ATC and Suprise Swap

I am new to this and this will be the first time to coordinate a swap so bare with me, I am long winded. I’ve had a lot of fun working on swaps and ATC’s and my kids have really enjoyed watching me and waiting for my packages in the mail, but let’s face it there is very little in Swap-bot for our little artists. I’ve noticed the toy swaps and while the kids may enjoy getting a little gift in the mail it doesn’t get them truly involved. I think this would be a great summer activity and create a great opportunity to teach your child a little discipline and patience while allowing them to explore their creativity. I am always looking for educational and fun ways to be involved with my children and summer is a perfect time to do so! I guess this the result of years of volunteer work with children. sigh

This said, here’s my swap: Have your child or children make two ATC’s. If you have more than one child, have them do one a piece. If you have more than 2 artists contact me and I may be able to set up swaps with parents with more. No age limit! I believe that creativity is something that is in the core of every child, however for those little budding artists, parents please aid in producing nice ATC’s. The basic 3.5 x 2.5 inches applies as does its thinness so keep an eye on their work. This could be a freehand, painted or scrapped ATC as there is no medium requirement. Let’s see what our kids can teach us! There is no theme involved, but adults please make note what your child/ children’s interests and likes are which may aid in direction and please contact your swap pal for info on their child/ children. This isn’t a forced ATC, but rather a free expression of creativity so parents gently steer them if necessary. ATC’s should include artist’s name and name of work. That’s right, have them sign them…if they can! In addition include a photo of child/children and if you like make note of any interest for summer pen pals, maybe a letter from them. Finally, add a little extra to the package. This will be an inexpensive item. Maybe a piece of candy or a few little stickers. (Please note allergies and parent wishes.) Let’s stick to under $2 before postage for that surprise and if you like you could involve your child in shopping or choosing that surprise for their swap partner(s) and get in a few educational tips on shopping in as well! If more than one child is involved please add enough of that little extra to share equally or split. I reserve the right to drop any one who has a poor swap history or a profile that needs to be fleshed out, however newbies and International swappers are welcome, but let me stress no flakers! There is nothing worse than flaking on a child. I can angel this one should I need to (or should I say my 3 kids will!) but I shouldn’t have to. I think this swap, if requirements are met, should receive a 5 for effort (and adult’s supervision and effort as well!) and a heart for the additional degree involved in the swap such as letter, surprise, or even photo. Let your kid(s) be the judge! Let’s get the swap pictures posted if possible and let our little artists be famous as well! I have started a Flickr group (Children's ATC's) for blogs and pics. If you have any questions or ideas please let me know. Like I said, this is my first coordinated swap and I will try to do my best to make this a fun, educational and great swap that we can repeat for our children though out the summer and possible the year! I’ve made this one a bit longer due to summer activities so everyone may get involved and have plenty of time.

Here’s the check list of requirements abbreviated: -Newbies and International swappers welcome, NO FLAKERS! -2 ATC’s, normal size requirements and thinness -no medium or theme requirements, but let’s consider swap partner(s) interests -one or two children may produce ATC’s (if more contact me) -add little surprise (under $2 before postage) -add photo of artist(s) and interest for summer pen pals, maybe a letter -adults, gently steer and aid child, but this is their art and swap -have fun!