How to Make Christmas Crafts for Kids

What would Christmas be without crafts? Families, schools and clubs use creative ideas to make Christmas memorable. Starting a tradition of "crafting" at Christmas sounds like a wonderful idea, but may seem overwhelming. It's a simple matter to take everyday objects, put on a few fancy touches and create a fun and easy project that everyone can share.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Toilet paper rolls
• Ruler
• Large squares of orange and yellow tissue paper
• Tape or glue
• Red and green construction paper
• Pencil

Get Ready to Make a Christmas Craft

1. Use ordinary stuff (toilet paper rolls, cotton balls, styrofoam cups) for your crafts. These materials are easy to get, simple to use and non-threatening to those unsure of their artistic skills.
2. Tell the kids in advance the day and time you are going to make the crafts and stick to it.
3. Gather together all your materials before you start working. Make sure that there is enough for everyone with a little extra to spare.
4. Organize the materials so that there is still plenty of work space available.
5. Have a finished product or a picture of the finished craft for the kids to see, so they know what their goal is.

Make Your Christmas Craft - Example

6. Demonstrate each step carefully. First, place the toilet paper roll on the edge of the construction paper and mark the end. Use a ruler to draw the line to end of the paper. Cut along the line. Wait until everyone has done that and then go on.
7. Roll up the paper around the cylinder and hold it down with tape or glue.
8. Lay a square of orange tissue paper flat on the table. Put a square of yellow tissue paper over it. Turn the yellow piece a quarter turn. Again, wait until everyone has completed each step.
9. Put your finger in the center of the paper and draw it up around your hand and arm. Poke the paper down into the toilet paper roll. Withdraw your hand and fluff out the paper.
10. Hide wrapped pieces of hard candy inside if you wish. Display the candles on a table or the mantle.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay relaxed and genuinely engaged with the kids for the entire project. If they sense that you are counting the minutes until you can get away, it will spoil the fun.
• Be helpful, but not critical. This is your child's craft, not yours.

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