Sometimes the best library programs are the ones that let participants get a little messy, a little creative, and leave with something they actually want to keep. Our DIY Squishie Stress Toy program did exactly that—and quickly became a favorite for tweens and teens, with plenty of potential as a family-friendly event too.

Using simple supplies like memory foam, scissors, and paint, participants created their own custom squishie stress toys. The process was straightforward, flexible, and satisfying, making it accessible for a wide age range.

How It Worked

Participants started by choosing a piece of memory foam that I pre-cut into cubes, and they sketched a simple shape —heart, star, animal, food, or classic squishie shapes all worked well. Once their design was ready, they cut the foam into shape (with supervision as needed), taking small cuts at a time. Next, they painted their squishies using acrylic or fabric paint.

After drying, the finished squishies were soft, squeezable, and unique. No two looked the same, and that was part of the fun. Giving creative freedom is something I noticed the teens respond well to.

Why This Program Works

This program hits a sweet spot between creativity and calm. The repetitive motions of cutting, shaping, and painting make it a natural stress reliever, while the open-ended design gives participants full creative control. There’s no wrong way to make a squishie, which keeps the atmosphere relaxed and welcoming.

For tweens and teens, it’s an opportunity to unwind, socialize, and create something functional. For younger children, the activity is just as enjoyable with the help of an adult or volunteer. With a little extra support, this program can easily transform into a family program that encourages creativity across generations.

Flexible for Different Ages

• Tweens & Teens: Independent cutting and painting, more detailed designs
• Younger Children: Pre-cut foam shapes or adult-assisted cutting
• Families: Shared workspaces, collaborative designs, and built-in conversation

Having volunteers or caregivers on hand allows the program to scale safely while keeping the focus on fun rather than instruction.

Simple Supplies

All that’s needed are (links to my favorites):

Memory foam sheets: https://amzn.to/4rGf1r7

Scissors: https://amzn.to/4qmuDyS

Exacto Knives: https://amzn.to/3OaUwEi

Acrylic Paint: https://amzn.to/4c9qxXm

Fabric Paint: https://amzn.to/4qroly3

The simplicity of the materials makes this an affordable, repeatable program that can be adjusted for group size and age level.

Programs like DIY Squishies show that libraries don’t have to be quiet or formal to be meaningful. By offering creative, hands-on experiences, we invite patrons to engage with the library in new ways—and sometimes leave a little less stressed than when they arrived.

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