Homemade Christmas Ornaments to Make with Toddlers

Inside: Find easy Christmas crafts and homemade ornaments you can DIY with your toddlers. Plus, get preparation tips and tricks while at it!

Are you looking for fun and easy Christmas ornaments to make with your younger kids? We have the best ideas for kid-made ornaments to choose from down below!

The Christmas season is such a magical time for children. Seeing the wonder and excitement through their eyes makes the stress and hurry of the holidays melt away. As the holidays are approaching and amidst the joyful chaos that comes with them, there’s an opportunity to slow down, connect with your little ones, and create cherished memories.

What better way to do that than by making DIY Christmas ornaments together?

Making ornaments with your toddlers is an absolutely fun way to get into the holiday spirit, I tell you!

These inventive and heartfelt crafts not only add a personal touch to your tree but also serve as tokens of the love and laughter shared during this special time of year. They also make wonderful gifts for friends and family, so everyone can have a personalized work of art from your child on their tree.

“Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall.”

~Larry Wilde

Key Takeaways

• Making Christmas ornaments with toddlers is an enjoyable and memorable way to get into the holiday spirit.
• Choosing suitable materials and preparing your work area can make the crafting experience smoother and safer for your little one.
• Making fun ornaments with your toddlers is a great way for them to practice fine motor skills and express their creativity.

Choosing the Right Materials

Choosing the right materials is key to making fun Christmas ornament crafts that are safe and entertaining for your little kids. Here are some pointers for selecting toddler-friendly and easy-to-work-with materials for your DIY Christmas ornaments:

Safe and Non-Toxic Materials

When it comes to materials for your Christmas ornaments, safety is the top priority. Make sure to choose materials that are non-toxic and safe for young children to handle. Here are some examples of safe materials to use:

• Washable paint: Choose washable, non-toxic paint that is easy to clean up if your toddler gets it on their skin or clothes by accident.
• Glue: Use non-toxic glue that is suitable for use by children.
• Paper: Choose sturdy paper that your toddler can cut and manipulate without tearing or becoming frustrated.
• Pipe cleaners: These are an excellent choice for toddlers because they are simple to bend and shape into various designs.

Recyclable Materials

Using recyclable materials is a fantastic way to teach your toddler the value of sustainability while also creating one-of-a-kind and eco-friendly Christmas ornaments. Here are a few examples of recyclable materials:

• Cardboard: Create unique and durable Christmas ornaments out of old cardboard boxes or packaging.
• Egg cartons: Cut up egg cartons into different shapes and paint them to make fun and colorful ornaments.
• Bottle caps: Collect bottle caps and use them to create distinctive designs for your Christmas decor.
• Paper rolls: Use empty paper rolls from toilet paper or paper towels to produce festive ornaments that are exciting to make.

By utilizing safe and non-toxic materials and incorporating recyclable materials into your DIY Christmas ornaments, you can create an educational and easy project for you and your toddler to indulge in together.

Preparation Tips for Making Crafts with Your Toddler

Making homemade Christmas ornaments with your toddlers can be a heartwarming experience that sparks their creativity and strengthens your bond. However, it can feel overwhelming just figuring out what to do, how to get started, and thinking of everything that can go wrong due to the unpredictability of a toddler.

Proper preparation is necessary to guarantee that the experience is both secure and rewarding for the whole family.

So before you begin your ornament-making project, pay attention to the following tips:

Related article about parenting toddlers: Starting Preschool (How to Prepare your Toddler)

1. Choose a Safe and Comfortable Location

Set up a good crafting station that is both safe and comfortable for your child to work in. A table or desk at a comfortable height is ideal. Ensure the location is well-lit and devoid of any hazards.

2. Gather Craft Supplies in Advance

Before beginning the project, lay out all of the necessary materials. This will help eliminate distractions and keep your child’s creative juices flowing. Some essential supplies you may consider include:

• Construction paper
• Glue stick
• Popsicle sticks
• Colorful beads
• Pom poms
• Scissors
• Markers
• Paint
• Glitter
• Ribbon

3. Plan the Project

Organize the project ahead of time to ensure that it is age-appropriate and engaging for your child. Be mindful of your child’s passions and abilities when choosing the activity.

Choose crafts that match their fine motor skills and attention span. Simple projects with fewer steps are ideal for maintaining their interest.

4. Set Expectations

Set expectations for the project before starting. Explain the project to your child and let them know what is expected of them. Remind them to follow safety guidelines and be respectful of the materials.

5. Embrace the Mess

Crafting can get messy, and that’s perfectly okay! Concern yourself with the mess later and just let your little one freely create something new.

6. Offer Choices

Allow your toddler to make choices during the crafting process, such as selecting colors or decorations. This empowers them and makes them feel involved.

7. Be Patient

It takes time to do crafts with toddlers. Be patient and embrace the process, even if it means the project will take more time than expected.

8. Model, Don’t Correct

Instead of correcting your toddler’s crafting technique, show them how to do it gently. Remember, it’s about the experience, not perfection.

9. Encourage Creativity

Don’t be afraid to let your toddler deviate from the original plan. Their unique ideas can lead to wonderful surprises.

10. Keep it Short and Sweet

Toddlers have short attention spans. If you sense their interest waning, it’s okay to finish up and try again another time to avoid a potential meltdown.

11. Praise and Display

Celebrate your toddler’s creations by displaying them proudly. Positive reinforcement fuels their confidence and eagerness to craft again.

12. Enjoy the Process

Remember, the goal is to have fun and make memories. Laugh, create, and savor the joy of crafting together.

These tips and ideas will help you navigate crafting sessions with your toddler, ensuring that both you and your little one have a delightful time while creating beautiful ornaments and lasting memories this holiday season.

Ready to get started? Listed below are step-by-step instructions on how to make each DIY ornament. Every ornament is designed to be simple enough to only require a little adult assistance. So gather your materials, and let’s get to Christmas crafting!

Just a friendly reminder, Mama: Enjoy the creative process!

Craft 1: Handprint Reindeer Ornament

Materials Needed

• Non-toxic brown and red paint
• Googly eyes
• Red pom-poms
• Ribbon or string
• Plain ornament or wooden cutout
• Glue sticks

Steps

1. Begin by painting your toddler’s palm with brown paint. Assist them in pressing their hand firmly onto the ornament or wooden cutout, creating the reindeer’s face.
2. Once the paint is dry, attach googly eyes and a red pom-pom for Rudolph’s iconic nose using glue.
3. Affix a loop of ribbon or string to the top of the ornament, allowing it to hang gracefully on the tree.

Related articles about homemaking with toddlers: Toddler-Approved: Easy Spaghetti Recipe

Craft 2: Salt Dough Ornaments

Making salt dough is as simple as mixing three pantry staples into a dough. Stick to the measurements, and you’re good to go! It’s a recipe even young children can help with.

Materials Needed

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup salt
• 1/2 cup water
• Acrylic paints
• Cookie cutters
• Straw or toothpick
• Ribbon or twine

Steps

1. In a bowl, combine the flour and salt. Slowly add water while kneading until a smooth dough forms.
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and employ cookie cutters to shape various festive patterns.
3. Punch a tiny hole near the top of each ornament with a straw or toothpick to accommodate a ribbon for hanging. You can make handprints on some of the pieces with their little hands if you wish.
4. Bake the ornaments in the oven at 200°F (93°C) for roughly 2 hours, or until they solidify and become dry.
5. After cooling, invite your toddler to paint the ornaments with vibrant colors and imaginative designs.
6. Thread a ribbon or twine through the hole and knot it to craft a secure hanger.

Craft 3: Pom-Pom Christmas Tree Ornaments

Materials Needed

• Green pom-poms in assorted sizes
• Craft foam or cardboard
• Glue stick
• Decorative embellishments (buttons, sequins, etc.)
• Ribbon or string

Steps

1. Cut a triangular shape from craft foam or cardboard to serve as the foundation of the tree.
2. With your assistance, let your toddler glue the green pom-poms onto the triangle, beginning at the bottom and overlapping as you ascend.
3. Allow your little one’s creativity to flow as they decorate the tree with buttons, sequins, or any other whimsical embellishments.
4. Attach a loop of ribbon or string to the top of the tree so it can be displayed proudly on the tree.

Craft 4: Fingerprint Snowman Ornament

Materials Needed

• White ceramic ornament or flat surface ornament
• Acrylic paint (white, black, orange)
• Paintbrushes
• Ribbon or string

Steps

1. Start by painting your toddler’s fingertip with white paint. Assist them in pressing their fingertip onto the ornament to create the snowman’s body. Repeat this step to create as many snowmen as you’d like.
2. Once the white paint is dry, help your toddler dip their fingertip in black paint to create the snowman’s eyes and mouth.
3. Use an even smaller fingertip or a paintbrush to dab on an orange paint fingerprint for the snowman’s carrot nose.
4. Let the ornament dry completely.
5. Attach a ribbon or string to the top of the ornament to hang it on the tree.

Craft 5: Beaded Candy Cane Ornaments

Note: This ornament is just a variation of this candy cane ornament from Arty Krafty Kids.

Materials Needed

• Wooden beads (red and white)
• Pipe Cleaners (ideally red or white)
• Scissors

Steps

1. Cut the pipe cleaner in half and secure one end of the pipe cleaner with a knot.
2. Place the first bead at the end of the pipe cleaner and secure it with a twist.
3. Thread the wooden beads onto the pipe cleaner, alternating the red and white beads.
4. Form the pipe cleaner into the shape of a candy cane.
5. Twist the pipe cleaner around the last bead to secure it.

Craft 6: Santa Ornament

Materials Needed

• Red, white, and black craft foam sheets
• Scissors
• Glue
• Ribbon or string

Steps

1. Cut a circle from the red foam sheet to create Santa’s face. Cut a smaller circle from the white foam sheet to make his beard. Glue the white circle onto the red circle to make the face.
2. Snip a tiny triangle out of the red foam sheet to make Santa’s hat. Then trim a small rectangle from the white foam sheet to make the hat’s brim. Attach the brim to the bottom of the hat with glue before pasting the hat on top of Santa’s head.
3. Cut two little circles from the black foam sheet to make Santa’s eyes. Glue them onto the face.
4. Take out a tiny triangle from the red foam sheet to make Santa’s nose. Adhere it to the face, just below the eyes.
5. To make Santa’s mustache, cut a small rectangle from the white foam sheet. To make his brows, cut two small rectangles from the black foam sheet. Attach the mustache and brows to the face with glue.
6. To make Santa’s mouth, cut a small rectangle from the red foam sheet. Attach it to the face, slightly below the nose.
7. Snip a tiny rectangle from the white foam sheet that will serve as the fur trim on Santa’s hat. Using glue, fix it to the hat.
8. Finally, affix a ribbon or string to the back of the ornament for hanging.

There you have it! Easy peasy, lemon squeezy! Now it’s time to tidy up.

Cleanup Tips

Working on crafts with toddlers can be a fun and creative activity, but it’s no secret that it can also be chaotic. Fortunately, a few practical tips and tricks can help make the cleanup process less stressful.

By practicing these cleanup strategies, you can rest assured that crafting time remains satisfying for everyone without fretting about the aftermath.

• Cover your work area with newspaper or a plastic tablecloth to catch any spills or drips.
• Keep a damp cloth nearby to wipe up any spills or sticky fingers.
• Use washable materials, such as washable paint and glue, to make cleaning up easier.
• Encourage your toddler to help with cleanup by putting away materials and throwing away any trash.

Storing Ornaments Safely

If you want to ensure that your ornaments remain in good condition for the next holiday season, follow these steps for safe storage:

• Wrap each ornament in tissue paper or bubble wrap to protect it from scratches and breakage.
• Store ornaments in a sturdy container with a lid, such as a plastic bin or cardboard box.
• Label the container with the contents and year, so you know what’s inside and when it was made.
• Store the container in a cool, dry place to protect it from dust, moisture, or heat.

With these tips, you and your toddler can enjoy your handmade Christmas ornaments for years to come.

The Importance of Family Time During the Holiday Season

Amid the holiday frenzy, it’s critical to step back and recognize the value of quality family time. Making these simple homemade Christmas ornaments with your toddlers offers a perfect opportunity to do just that.

The act of creating together not only nurtures your toddler’s creativity but also fosters a sense of connection that can often get overshadowed by the holiday rush.

Spread the Joy

Don’t forget to share these ideas with your fellow parents as you embark on your ornament-making expedition! Encourage them to participate in these crafts with their toddlers and make precious memories this holiday season.

Every year, these homemade ornaments become a cherished tradition, reminding them of the joy and memories of Christmases past.

As the holidays approach, seize the opportunity to connect with your toddlers through creative expression. These DIY ornaments are more than just decorations; they are pieces of art brimming with memories!

So assemble your craft supplies, make a spot at the table, and let the magic of crafting and family bonding unfold. Merry Christmas and Happy Crafting!

Talk to you soon,

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Ornaments for Toddlers

What are some easy and fun Christmas ornaments to make with toddlers?

There are many easy and fun ornaments you can make with your toddler come Christmas time. Some fun ideas include paper snowflakes, handprint wreaths, popsicle sticks, and snow globe ornaments.

How can I make lightweight Christmas ornaments with my toddler?

Consider using foam sheets, felt, or paper to create lightweight Christmas ornaments with your toddler. These materials are simple to cut and decorate and won’t weigh down your tree branches. Lightweight materials such as feathers, cotton balls, and tinsel are other options that will add a fun and cheery vibe to your ornaments.

What are some Scandinavian-inspired Christmas ornaments that are easy to make with toddlers?

Scandinavian-inspired Christmas ornaments are simple and elegant. They are also effortless for children to make. Paper stars, felt hearts, and simple wooden ornaments are a few examples. Natural materials such as pinecones and twigs can also be used to create rustic and appealing ornaments.

What are some DIY ideas for easy Christmas ornaments to make with toddlers?

DIY Christmas ornaments are a fun way to engage your toddler in creative play. Making ornaments out of recycled materials such as cardboard or plastic bottles, creating ornaments with photos of family members or pets, and using glitter and paint to add sparkle and color to your ornaments are just a few ideas.

What are some easy classroom Christmas ornaments that toddlers can make?

If you’re a teacher or a parent looking for easy classroom Christmas ornaments that toddlers can make, consider using materials like foam balls, paper plates, and craft sticks. You can also create simple ornaments like paper chains or snowflakes that can be hung up around the classroom.

What are some homemade Christmas ornaments that grandparents can make with their grandchildren?

Grandparents can definitely make unique and personalized ornaments with their grandchildren this holiday season! Homemade ornaments produced from family photos, handprints, footprints, and fingerprints are only a few ideas. They can also make Christmas ornaments that showcase their family’s history and heritage, which make great keepsakes!