DIY Holiday Crafts: Ornaments and Decorations for Little Ones

Looking for ways to keep your little ones busy during the holiday?  Look no further.  Our teachers have compiled a list of their favorite holiday crafts just for you and your little ones this holiday season!

1.  Pinecone Christmas Tree-

Paint a pinecone and sprinkle glitter on top of the paint.  Add tiny pom poms to resemble a Christmas tree.  Glue a star on top.  For a little extra, place the pinecone on a small terra cotta pot (you can even paint the pot). Pinching the glitter, using a watercolor paintbrush, and placing the pom poms on top are all great ways to improve fine motor skills.

2.  Handprint Table Runner-

Cut postal wrapping paper or brown craft paper (old wrapping paper will work too) the length of the table to resemble a table runner. Paint hands two different shades of green and place all around the outside of the table runner.  Alternate handprints one right side up and then upside down.  Handprints can overlap.  Use red dabber dot marker to place “berries” on handprints (or red pom-poms).   This table runner is a terrific table decoration for your Christmas dinner!

3.  Bowtie Pasta Wreath-

Paint or dye (https://www.wikihow.com/Dye-Pasta) bowtie pasta a green hue.  Add glitter for a little sparkle!  Arrange pasta in a circle and glue onto paper.  Tie a bow with ribbon and glue onto pasta or dye a few pieces of pasta red to resemble berries.  As an alternative, glue pasta pieces together on wax paper and let dry. Hang wreath with a pipe cleaner. Dyeing the pasta is a great science project for kids!

4.  Cinnamon Ornament-

Mix together 1 cup applesauce, 4 oz. the ground cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of Elmer’s glue until well combined.  Roll out the dough and cut with a gingerbread cookie cutter (or whatever shape you desire).  Make sure to use a straw to place hole at top for hanging.  Place the ornaments on a parchment-lined baking sheet.  Dry in a 200-degree oven for 2-3 hours.  Once dry, decorate as desired and then insert a ribbon through the hole for hanging.  Not for eating, but sure smells delicious (add ground cloves for additional aroma)!

5.  Popsicle Stick Ornament-

Glue craft sticks together in a Christmas tree or star shape.  Use paint or markers to color craft sticks.  Add sequins or beads for decoration.  Don’t forget to add yarn at the top of the ornament for hanging. Want to add a little math work into your project…make a pattern with the sequins or beads.

I hope you enjoy these crafts during the holiday season.  What’s your favorite holiday craft?  Please share it with us.