Beadwork

While it may not be the most sophisticated project, the little beaded lizards are a great rainy day activity to do with the kids.  Simple and cheap, these projects can build in intensity and difficulty depending on the age of the person doing the project.  I took beads and some string to a sorority rush event and girls bonded over these tiny beaded pets.  Pony beads are the best to use with beginners because they're bigger and easier to see and keep track of.  I have seen people do beads as small as seed beads though.  How-to books can be bought at any hobby-lobby or michael's with different projects and what beads to use.