Nativity Scene Crafts for Kids
During the Christmas season, it can be difficult to help kids understand what the holiday is really about. But one fun way to engage both your child's mind and hands is through crafts. When it comes to Christmas crafts, you can create unique nativity scenes that will not only show your kids what they are capable of making, but also serve as a constant reminder of the central reason for the Christmas celebration.
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Clay Nativity Scene
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Don't throw out those old clay flowerpots. You can use them to create a simple yet festive nativity scene. Christian Crafters provides the materials list and easy-to-follow instructions to convert your old planters into a holiday decoration (see References). Take three clay pots, potentially miniature ones, and add some wooden beads, fabric and glue to create the traditional Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus gathered around the manger.
Stick Nativity Scene
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The stick nativity scene is a unique twist on a standard nativity scene craft project. You don't need any fancy materials. Take your kids on a short walk or hike and have them pick up thin sticks, some berries, dried grass, and some decorative rocks and leaves. Once you get home, you can tie and glue the sticks together into a nativity structure. Baby Jesus is crafted by simply wrapping a rock in a leaf and laying it among the dried grass. Detailed instructions and pictures are available from Danielle's Place of Crafting and Activities website.
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Homemade Crèche Nativity Scene
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This crèche nativity scene is a bit more involved, but the colorful and detailed results will keep your kids' eyes sparkling as they see their handiwork. You'll need materials such as pipe cleaners, cotton balls, glue and yarn. Step-by-step instructions on the Disney Family Fun website show you how to create each figure in the nativity scene, as well as animals and angels. The nativity scene can be arranged into whatever pose your kids want, and the figures are safe to play with.
Paper Nativity Scene
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The Paper Toys website provides a ready-made nativity craft kit that only requires a printer and some scissors. Print out the images available on the site---offered in both colored and uncolored versions, in case your children want to add their own artistic flair to the nativity. Then cut out the figures, manger and background. Help your kids fold in the pieces where indicated for a three-dimensional nativity scene that stands up on its own.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Nativity image by mcab from Fotolia.com
