How to Make Construction Paper Reindeer for Toddlers

Toddlers are at a perfect age to learn to make simple crafts. Holiday projects like construction paper reindeer keep them busily engaged, yet not overwhelmed or frustrated with complicated directions. They may want to attempt all the steps, or be happy merely watching. This Christmas reindeer craft project can be kept as is or it can be decorated with extra embellishments like googly eyes or pom-pom noses.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Brown and red construction paper
• Marker pens
• All-purpose craft glue or glue stick
• Scissors

1. Trace the child's foot on brown paper. The toddler should be wearing socks or shoes to cut down on the giggle factor.

2. Cut out the traced shape.

3. Copy the child's hands with fingers splayed out on orange paper.

4. Clip the shapes.

5. Glue the bottom of the hand shapes to the top of the clipped foot. Place the hands together with the thumbs in the center, and slant them to resemble reindeer antlers. Toddlers can easily use glue sticks for this step.

6. Make a face by drawing eyes, nose and a mouth below the antlers.

7. Leave the project on flat surface to dry completely.

Tips & Warnings

• With the simple addition of a red nose, this reindeer transforms into "Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer." Sing the song while making the craft to add extra enjoyment.
• Start a Christmas tradition by making this craft every year, and compare the size of the antlers to previous years to show a child how much she's grown.
• Before drawing the face, caregivers can involve the child by asking questions about what parts need to be drawn and where they belong.