44 Ways to Upcycle Your Kids' Castoffs

Need unbreakable serveware for your next soirée? Raid your kiddo's summer toy stash, run the sand buckets and shovels through the dishwasher to sanitize them, then use the colorful containers to serve up a variety of snacks. Bonus: The sand shovels actually make handy scoops to prevent guests from helping themselves with their hands. Get more clever party pointers, below.

Put that collection of leftover party hats to good use on family movie night by filling them with popcorn, pretzels, crackers or any other dry snack. The cone's narrow end makes it easy for even the littlest hands to hold.

Surprise: Just like you, your furkid's skin can burn in the sun — and they're much more likely to overheat on a warm, sunny day. Help them keep their cool and prevent a painful sunburn by turning an extra twin flat sheet into this totally portable pup-sized bit of shade. Learn everything you need to craft it yourself, below.

Quite possibly the easiest raised garden, ever — just drill drainage holes in the base of your kiddo's old sandbox, then plant it with herbs, flowers or other low-growing edibles. Then, green up their thumbs by enlisting your little one's help in tending to the tasty harvest. Get all our tips for growing a kid-friendly garden, below.