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You hear it way too often, that tired childhood refrain, "We're bored!"

What's a parent to do?

You don't need a lot of resources or effort to kick-start young minds. Here are some ideas for constructive, creative activities for self-expression.

• The theater, dahling. Kids love to sing and act, and a porch or deck is the perfect stage for a performance. They can act out a scene from a favorite book, make new lyrics to the tune of an old song, or go beatnik with a live poetry recital. The works of Shel Silverstein appeal to a wide range of ages. Don't forget the costumes.

• Make a movie. Pull out the video recorder and and have the kids write and direct their own movie. Try a spoof of a popular film or a new script entirely of their own creation. The production can be as simple as one child alone with the camera or can involve the whole neighborhood. There's more behind the movies than just actors. You can tap into children's artistic, photographic, writing, and leadership skills on this project.

• Chart family history. Let the kids interview a relative on video or audio. Make an outline of questions to ask about their childhood, family folk lore, or recollections about the day your child was born. If no relatives are handy, have your kids write an autobiography and draw pictures or compile family photos.

• Visit a foreign country. You won't rack up any frequent flier miles for this one. Get books from the library and visit Web sites about another country. Learn about the people, their customs, and culture. Help your child dress like someone from that country. Cook traditional food and make the national flag from construction paper.

• Dig it. Plant a garden with your kids. Use containers or window boxes if yard space is limited. Grow easy veggies like beans and tomatoes. You can also plant flowers that attract butterflies or a moon garden to enjoy at night.

• Become an Ansel Adams. It's a myth that you need lots of expensive gear to learn photography. Youngsters can be taught basic composition methods and shooting principles with a disposable camera, inexpensive digital, or a point and shoot. Look to online guides for help.

Written by Paula Ouder

Do you have a great idea for a kids' craft or activity? Let us know.