December Eco-Activities: Crafting Cozy Handmade Decorations with Kids
As the winter chill settles in, there's nothing quite like infusing your home with warmth and charm.
This December, let's embark on a crafting journey with your little ones to create handmade decorations that radiate coziness. Gather around, and let the creativity flow with these simple and delightful nature-inspired activities.
Dried Orange Slice Garland: A Festive Fragrance
Materials Needed:
Oranges (any kind will work)
Pinecones
Cinnamon sticks (if desired)
Cranberries (if desired)
Various greenery (if desired)
String
STEP 1: Begin by slicing oranges thinly and baking them in the oven at a low temperature until they're completely dry. These instructions worked well for me. This not only fills your home with a citrusy aroma but also sets the stage for a festive garland.
STEP 2: Invite your child to join in the fun by stringing the dried orange slices onto a thread, alternating with various materials like pine cones, cinnamon sticks, and cranberries. Encourage them to experiment with different patterns and arrangements, making each garland a unique masterpiece.
STEP 3: Hang these fragrant creations around your home, or turn them into charming ornaments by stringing them vertically. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to do this and it’s OK to “mess up” on your first try. Just have fun with your little one!
Salt Dough Ornaments: A Hands-On Creation
Materials Needed:
Flour
Salt
Water
Cookie cutters
Straw
Paints
Nature items (leaves, herbs) for pressing
Salt dough ornaments are a timeless and simple delight, perfect for crafting with young ones.
STEP 1: Mix flour, salt, and water to create a smooth dough, a concoction easily whipped up with ingredients found at home. Add a few drops of essential oils to fill your home with a lovely scent.
STEP 2: Roll out the dough and let your child's imagination run wild as they cut festive shapes using cookie cutters. Don't forget to poke a hole with a straw for threading a string later. You can let them add a personal touch, pressing bits of nature into the dough for an extra-special effect.
STEP 3: Once baked and cooled, the ornaments become a blank canvas for your little artist. Grab some paints, I love how watercolors look on these beauties, but you can use any paint you have lying around. Tie a piece of twine or yarn through the hole and hang around your home or on your tree.
Winter Wonderland Terrarium: A Miniature Delight
Materials Needed:
Small twigs
Pinecones
Moss
Glass container
STEP 1: Take a winter adventure with your child to collect small twigs, pinecones, and moss from the great outdoors. These tiny treasures will be the building blocks of a captivating winter wonderland terrarium.
STEP 2: Find a clear glass container to use. Some examples include fish bowls, mason jar, and beverage dispenser.
STEP 3: Together, arrange the collected items in a glass container, creating a miniature scene that captures the essence of the season. This enchanting terrarium can be placed on a windowsill or as a centerpiece, bringing a touch of nature indoors.
Gather your supplies, wrap up in cozy layers, and let the joy of creating handmade decorations with your little ones fill your home with warmth and love this December. Happy crafting! 🍊🎄✨