How to Find Christmas Gifts for Children to Make

Children like to make gifts and contribute to holiday gift giving. Finding gifts for children to make can be a great way to support children in this goal.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. 
    

   Know the abilities of the child and the interests of the recipient. Many times children can make simple gifts that appeal to the giver. As the child's skills grow, the ability to make personalized gifts will also grow.

2. 
    

   Ornaments are a popular choice for Christmas gifts to make. First, all age groups and abilities can make them. Just about any ability level can create some kind of ornament. Secondly, ornaments are unpacked each year and memories renewed. They are easy to store with the regular Christmas decorations and the recipient will see the gift as long as it lasts on a yearly basis. They do not take up a great deal of space year round.

3. 
    

   Consider practical choices. There are simple options like bookmarks and key chains that are practical and remind the recipient of the giver year round. These gifts are easy starter gifts and can become more detailed as children's skills increase.

4. 
    

   Think about service. Many relatives and friends could use a hand. If you have older children who are short of cash and wondering what to give as gifts, service is often worth far more than anything they could buy. Offering coupons for tasks to be completed can be a real "gift" for those who are struggling with tasks.

5. 
    

   Christmas can be a time to teach children to cook. Many people consider sweets to be the only gifts people want for Christmas. However, some people find meals that can be frozen and eaten later to be a real gift. Have your child help you make soups and other types of foods that freeze and store well. This is a great tradition to start with your children.

6. 
    

   Check the resource link below for a range of crafts to try making with your children.

7. 
    

   Start early. Make a list of the people your children want to make gifts for and possible gift options. The earlier you start the better chance you have to make a plan. Some gifts will require more time and planning so, you will want to create a schedule to finish your list.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for opportunities to learn new skills.
• Ask relatives for ideas for gifts.
• Engage your family in friends in supporting your child's efforts.

Resources

• Links for Gift Making
• Gifts Kids Can Make
• Holiday Gifts Kids Can Make

[badtea]

on 12/28/2009 Great ideas for gifts that children can make! 5* and recommended.

[yellowstar2000]

on 9/22/2009 Nice article with lots of creative ideas! I've always loved the ornament idea as nothing puts a smile on a child's face more than seeing their creative masterpieces on the Christmas tree and if you do one every year they also learn about the wonderful sentimentality of keeping memories close by.

[crosswised]

on 9/20/2009 Very good advice and something we probably need to get going on very soon. Rated 5*

[mweise]

on 9/19/2009 I really liked Step 2! Resources are great also. 5*

[meknowhow2]

on 9/17/2009 Great tips! I will use them for sure!