As I've said before, I'm a not-so-crafty parent. But when sweltering summer heat makes outdoor play impossible, even I must admit that craft projects are a valuable form of indoor entertainment.

Fortunately for me — and all the other not-so-crafty parents out there — there are plenty of easy summer crafts that even the least crafty among us can manage.

1. Jell-O Playdough

More cooking project than crafting project, Jell-O Playdough is made entirely in the kitchen. Just 6 ingredients (all edible) are combined in a pan, and when cooked over low heat, they magically combine to create a soft, brightly-colored, sweet-smelling playdough.

You'll need to know how to stir, but beyond that, this craft is fairly foolproof.

2. Perler Beads

Perler Beads can easily provide hours of entertainment. The tiny colored beads are arranged on peg boards, then fused together with the heat of an iron to create an image or shape.

Placing the beads requires precision and focus, so this craft is wonderful for helping children develop fine motor skills, and although 5 and above is the recommended age, toddlers and preschoolers can enjoy this activity with supervision.

3. Ice Cream Cones

Real ice cream cones may not count as crafts, but when you use paper and pom-poms, you're definitely getting crafty. Print the template for a Paper Ice Cream Cone Craft and then use crayons, glue, and real sprinkles to decorate your pretend treat.

Or make another kind of Ice Cream Cone Craft from a terra cotta pot and some colored cotton pom-poms.

4. Sun-Print Cards

Don't be intimidated by the fact that this project is from Martha Stewart — Sun-Print Cards are surprisingly simple. All you need are scissors, glue, construction paper, and a sunny window...and about a week's worth of patience. (This may be the hardest part!)

5. Ribbon/Balloon Flip Flops

Nothing says summer like flip flops, so why not make your own? Buy a few plain, inexpensive, solid-colored pairs at the local dollar store, and then let your kids personalize them with ribbon, fabric, or even balloons.

Are you crafty? What are your favorite easy summer craft projects?