Get ready because the weather is getting colder, and school break will be bringing the kids indoors! When the energy matches an outdoor game of tag, we have some mom-approved holiday crafts that will keep your littles busy and entertained.
During this busy time of year, it can feel refreshing to slow down with easy and stress-free projects. We put together a fun list of activities and games that parents can enjoy with the kids, all while wearing Little Sleepies pajamas for kids and family pajama pants!
The Hottest Game this Season: Holiday Scavenger Hunt
After nearly two years of puzzles and family game nights, the kids deserve something new to keep them learning and active. This season, a holiday scavenger hunt is a take on our summer treasure hunt, but with a festive twist.
Make them guess the hint.
Instead of telling your little ones what to look for, give them a hint. Here are some ideas:
- Something a reindeer would eat
- Something you hang on a tree
- Something an elf wears to a party
- Something you give Santa to eat
I spy with my little twinkle eye.
Between shopping, family visits, and playdates, your time together is the perfect time to play the holiday scavenger game. Generate excitement while on the go with these fun I spy ideas that work well in a busy store or in line to see Santa.
- I spy a reindeer (when driving by a festive yard decoration)
- I spy a wreath
- I spy a Christmas tree
- I spy Santa
- I spy candy canes
- I spy a decorated mailbox
Festive Garlands
The classic cranberry and popcorn garland is a favorite holiday decoration that the entire family can enjoy making - and snacking on! But why stop at popcorn? We have fun ideas that are as creative as building gingerbread houses.
- Straw garland: This idea from Projects with Kids makes a unique garland from all of the colorful and festive paper straws available. Just cut straws into 1-inch pieces and weave the string through the straws.
- Ribbon Garland: Cut ribbon into 2-inch pieces and let their imagination run. Use a long piece of twine or string, and tie the ribbon pieces into knots or even bows to create a funky garland.
- Paperclip garland: We’re not kidding. Get a box of paper clips, extra points for the colorful variety, and ask your littles to weave them together. This is the ultimate motor skill project.
- Holiday card garland: Your family, friends, and neighbors put a lot of time into sending cards during this time of year. Get the kids involved by creating a garland and telling stories about the people in their lives.
Build Santa’s Workshop
We’re guessing that your mail delivery game is strong this time of year. Put those boxes to use by building Santa's workshop. Start with a large box and cut out a door and a few windows. Use supplies at home to add some festive flair with markers, glue, and supplies.
Do you need some inspiration? Check out this clever Santa’s workshop from The Hustling Mama.
Put on a Holiday Play
Step into a holly jolly world with a fun skit designed by the kids! Start with a theme (we suggest North Pole Neighborhood Party) and have the kids create paper plate masks like these from Design Improvised. There is no limit to the imagination, which can be the beginning of a fun-filled family tradition.
Hang Around with DIY Ornaments
A wise elf once said that a child could create an ornament from anything. And from our years of experience, that is a fairly accurate statement! Set up a station to build one-of-a-kind ornaments that can decorate the family tree, adorn holiday gifts, or deck the halls.
- Popsicle sticks make wonderful snowflakes and gingerbread houses (like this fun idea from Studio DIY!)
- Pinecones look better with glitter
- Family pictures don’t always need to be in frames
- Paint samples can be cut into fun shapes
- Outdoor twigs can be glued into many shapes
- Little Sleepies round tags are the cutest
- Cinnamon sticks smell good as trees, too (check out this craft from See Vanessa Craft)
