Showing posts sorted by relevance for query christmas. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query christmas. Sort by date Show all posts

Christmas Tree Crafts for Kids

Deck the Halls with Fun! Craft a Merry Christmas with Your Kids

There's something truly magical about Christmas. The twinkle lights, the delicious treats, and the joy of giving all come together to create a season unlike any other. But perhaps the most heartwarming part of the holidays is spending quality time with loved ones.





This year, why not make some of that quality time extra creative? Crafting with your kids is a fantastic way to embrace the festive spirit and build lasting memories together. Here are just a few reasons to get crafty this Christmas:

  • Spark Creativity and Imagination: Crafting allows kids to explore their creativity and problem-solving skills. As they cut, glue, and assemble, their imaginations take flight!
  • Boost Fine Motor Skills: Many Christmas crafts involve activities like tearing paper, threading beads, and using scissors. These motions help develop the small muscles in their hands and wrists, which are important for tasks like writing and dressing.
  • Build Confidence: When kids complete a craft project, they get a huge sense of accomplishment. Seeing their creation come to life builds their confidence and self-esteem.
  • Bonding Time: Crafting provides a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for parents and kids to connect. It's a chance to chat, laugh, and work together on a fun project.
  • Personalized Decorations: There's nothing more special than a homemade Christmas decoration. These one-of-a-kind ornaments will be cherished for years to come, and become treasured keepsakes.



Here are some ideas for crafting with the kids. Click thru the links to view the full tutorials.


Pretzel Christmas Trees by Oh My Creative

Salt Dough Christmas Tree Ornaments by Messy Little Monster

3D Paper Trees by The Printables Fairy

Christmas Tree Lacing by Little Bins for Little Hands

Tissue Paper Trees by DIY and Fun

Sequin Trees by Sum of Their Stories

Pointillism Trees by Coffee and Carpool

Pasta Trees by Mimosas and Motherhood

Paper Bag Christmas Trees by Simple Everyday Mom

Cardboard Christmas Trees by Kids Activities Blog




Process Art Christmas Trees by Sweet Silly Sara

Paper Plate Christmas Trees by Red Ted Art

Christmas Tree Bookmarks by My Joy Filled Life

Christmas Tree Cones by Mom Brite

Edible Christmas Trees by Our Wabi Sabi Life 


Crafting for All Ages!

The beauty of Christmas crafts is that there's something for everyone. Here's a sneak peek at some fun ideas suitable for a variety of ages:

  • For Toddlers: Little ones will love exploring textures and colors with handprint ornaments, play dough creations, or simple collages.
  • For Preschoolers: Preschoolers can get creative with yarn wrapping, decorating pre-cut paper ornaments, or making their own construction paper Christmas trees.
  • For School-Aged Kids: Older kids can tackle more intricate crafts like pipe cleaner snowflakes, Popsicle stick reindeer, or decorating their own miniature Christmas trees.

So gather your supplies, grab your little elves, and get ready to craft a Christmas season to remember!

In the upcoming posts of this blog series, we'll be sharing a variety of fun and festive Christmas crafts that you can make with your kids. Stay tuned!

In the meantime, here are some additional tips for a successful crafting session:

  • Set Up a Crafting Station: Designate a space for crafting that's well-ventilated and easy to clean up.
  • Gather Your Supplies: Make sure you have everything you need before you start, so your little ones don't get frustrated.
  • Lay Down the Ground Rules: Set some basic expectations for handling materials and cleaning up.
  • Embrace the Mess: Crafting can get a little messy, so relax and have fun!
  • Most Importantly, Have Fun! This is a time to bond with your kids and create lasting memories. So crank up the Christmas tunes, sip on some hot cocoa, and get ready to craft a magical Christmas together!


Find some of our favorite Christmas crafts here:

The Best Holiday Films to Watch in the Heat for An Amazing Christmas In July Party

 


Christmas in July is similar to the Christmas holiday festival held in December but is celebrated in the middle of the year; come with decorations, sending 2024 Christmas cards, gifts, and holiday movies. With the current heat of summer, a Christmas in July party can help one cool off and enjoy the festivities at the same time. Below is a list of the best holiday movies to watch during Christmas in July celebration and why they are ideal.





The ELF

The Elf is one of the best Christmas movies that you can watch during the Christmas in July celebrations. The movie features Will Ferrell as Buddy the main character who was raised by elves in the North Pole, This movie is funny and heartwarming movie where the star searches for his true self and spreads the holiday spirit in New York. 

Why It's Perfect

The movie “Elf” is one of the funniest and joyful movies that you can enjoy as a family during this festive holiday celebrated on July 25th. Due to its happy and playful tone, the show can be watched during the summer while keeping the viewer in a light-hearted and cheerful mood.

Home Alone (1990)

This movie features an eight-year-old boy (Kevin McCallister). The boy finds himself home alone after his parents leaves to enjoy the holiday. He has to outwit two dimwit thieves and defend his house with the help of various traps. This is a good movie that you can enjoy with your kids during the Christmas in July festivity. 

Why It's Perfect

 There is a lot of fun in the mischief and adventure brought about in the movie “Home Alone”. If you want to escape the summer heat, the best option is to organize a family dinner and eventually watch this movie together. 

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" (1989)

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a comedy film released in 1989. Griswold’s plan to have a big family Christmas as expected was bound to be a big disaster. The main actors are Chevy Chase and this is a comedy that explores how dysfunctional the family can be especially during gatherings.

Why It's Perfect

This classic provokes lot of laughter and feeling of nostalgia. It is just a reminder that every family gathering is a potential mess, no matter the time of the year.

The Holiday" (2006)

Besides sending business holiday cards to your colleagues at work, watching this movie can bring a sense of fulfilment during the Christmas in July celebrations. Two women from two different countries, United States of America and the United Kingdom, exchange residences for the Christmas holidays with the intention of leaving behind their respective problems in their relationships. Yes, they both learn to see life in a different way and of course, they each experience love in a way they never thought possible.

Why It's Perfect

In “The Holiday,” there is some romance, and snow, and the beauty of winter, which is perfect for giving the audience the feeling of Christmas in July. However, the movie is rated and is most probably not fit for younger kids. 

"Love Actually" (2003)

This movie is a comedy about selection of eight completely different couples and their experience of their intimate lives linked only by some connecting moments and placed in the month before Christmas in London, England.

Why It's Perfect

 ” Love Actually” can be cited as a multi-plot romantic comedy that is filled with messages and different appeals to the general audience. Being a comedy romantic drama, it will suit a mixed audience at your summer party very well.

Christmas in July Film

Christmas in July is a 1940 film directed by Preston Sturges following an ambitious clerk who was tricked into believing he has won $25,000 in a contest held by a coffee factory. The star began using his believed winnings to fulfil some of his dreams.

Why it’s perfect

Christmas in July movie blends perfectly with the July festival held  on 25th July of each year to celebrate Christmas. The movie fits the whole family gathering during these festivals which means you can watch with children and adults alike.

How to Plan the Perfect Christmas Party: Some Top Ideas to Make Your Event Memorable

 




It's the most wonderful time of the year, and we are full of good cheer! There's nothing like a proper celebration of the season, and if you plan a Christmas party, you know very well that it needs to be as special as possible. And whilst you can always rely on Christmas traditions and the décor you used in celebrations past, there’s no reason to stop there. In fact, there are more ideas than ever – and they can certainly add a sparkle to your Christmas event. So here’s how to plan the perfect Christmas party: some top ideas to make your event memorable.



Select your venue wisely.


The first thing on the list would be to select your venue wisely. The venue, after all, can make or break your event – especially the most amazing event of the year! When selecting a venue, it's important to consider certain requirements, such as live music or a dance floor (and these are just the beginning). You also have to consider whether the space is what you need – so make sure you have your guest list (or at least an estimate of the number of people). It would also be wise to keep a few questions in mind, such as whether the venue has a sound system, when it is available, the booking terms and conditions, and whether it has parking. Does the venue have its bar and catering facilities?


Determine a theme


Why not determine a theme if you want to give your Christmas event that extra 'wow' factor? The theme will help you decide on other aspects, such as décor, food, entertainment and activities, and so on. Some themes are also more inspired than most, such as a winter wonderland, a Christmas jumper or pyjama party, a Christmas party with Christmas characters like Santa Claus, Rudolph, Frosty the Snowman, Santa's Elves, and more. Or you can celebrate in style with a Christmas carnival, and plenty of Christmas-themed stalls are available nowadays. Whatever theme works best for you, you could also seek help from fabulous party planners in Gloucestershire, like Oasis Events.



Decide on the décor


The decorations can add more ambience and personality to your event, but they can also be expensive, so take note of that. You can choose to create your décor (again, this would depend on the theme you are having), or you can rely on a professional to do it for you. If you decide to do your own thing regarding the décor, the best you can do is form a committee that will be in charge of it. This is one of the best aspects of having a theme – it can help you choose patterns, colours, and a motif much more easily. Plan ahead for the décor you need to hire from a vendor (like lighting).



Plan the entertainment

A Christmas party wouldn't be complete without the proper entertainment, so plan this wisely. You can go the traditional route with beloved Christmas games like charades, musical chairs, and musical statues. Or you can be more adventurous and have a game of Pictionary, wrap presents in a relay game, hold a Christmas-inspired treasure hunt, or have a game of Christmas bingo!


Image attributed to Pixabay.com


20+ Christmas Books for Preschoolers

Christmas is near, so why not check out some fun holiday themed books with your preschooler? My kids helped me pick these titles from our collection to inspire your bedtime stories. I am sure you will find a bunch of titles you want to check out.



This list includes affiliate links. If you buy a book from the list, I will earn a small advertising fee at no cost to you.

My kids have a collection of favorite books for every season. It is one of the perks of having a librarian for a father. We love to rotate our titles to keep the experience of reading exciting. These are some of our favorite titles from over the years. I know your kids will love them all. Find them on amazon, or stop by your local library and borrow a few.

Elmo's 12 Days of Christmas
It's Christmas, David!
That's Not My Snowman
Dream Snow
Llama Llama Jingle Bells

Related: Magical Reindeer Food


Who Is Coming To Our House?
Thomas Counts on Christmas
Construction Site on Christmas
The Christmas Elf Countdown
Paw Patrol Holiday Helpers

Related: Mickey Mouse Jingle Bell Ornaments 


Bear Stays Up For Christmas
Biscuit Gives a Gift
The Not Very Merry Pout Pout Fish
Pinkalicious Merry Pinkmas
Pete the Cat Saves Christmas

Related: Green Button Tree Ornaments


Christmas Cookie Day
Mickey's Clubhouse Christmas
Berenstain Bears' Night Before Christmas
Santa's Toy Shop
The Grinch's Great Big Flap Book

If you have a favorite Christmas book for preschoolers I would love to hear about it.

You can find all of my Christmas posts here.

How to Save Money for Christmas

 

Photo by Joslyn Pickens 


When the Christmas season rolls around it is a time for gift-giving. However, before you go ahead and start spending, it is a good idea to try to save. 


With inflation rising, it's best to try to keep spending as minimal as possible. Here's a closer look at how you can control your spending this holiday season.

Create a Budget

The first step to saving money is to create a budget for the holiday season. First, write the names of all the people you want to buy gifts for and then decide how much money you want to spend on each of their gifts. 


This is an easy way to immediately control your spending. Once you have finished allocating the amount you want to spend, you can then calculate your expenditure. 


It might also be a lot more fun to try to fit the gifts you buy into the amount that you set for each person, instead of the other way around. Remember that getting gifts is simply a way to help us learn about the true meaning of Christmas. In the end, it's the thought that comes.

Use a Tracker

If you always have your phone with you a good idea will be to start using a tracker to keep your spending down this holiday season. It can be easy to say that you will think about how much you are spending in January. 


However, when January rolls around you will likely regret that you have spent so much. Getting an app on your phone to assist you with keeping track of your spending in real-time, is a good idea so that you can avoid regrets.

Start Shopping Early

One of the best things you can do is to start shopping as early as possible. The earlier you start shopping the less likely it is that you will overspend. 


Don't wait until the week of Christmas or the day before Christmas to start trying to find gifts. You are likely to end up having to buy things at more expensive prices. Take advantage of Black Friday deals and cyber week sales.

Combine Orders

If you decide to shop online you should consider combining your orders to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money. Buying all your gifts at one time and then getting them shipped out at once is the best way to avoid high shipping costs when you are purchasing gifts online.

Stay Off Your Credit Cards


Another thing you can do is try to stay off your credit cards during this time. Try to use cash instead. 


This is where making a budget becomes critical. You can then pull all the cash that you need at once.


Once that cash runs out your spending is done. Do not carry your credit cards with you when you go shopping. This will make it even easier for you not to use them if you run out of cash.

Set Up a Dedicated Christmas Account

If you typically have a lot of people you need to give gifts to at Christmas, you can set up a dedicated Christmas account. You can start putting funds in it from January so that at the end of the year you will have a good stash of cash ready to buy Christmas gifts. 


The good thing about having a separate account is that you get a debit card for that account. It helps you to separate your money. Even if you don't save in the account every month, you can decide on your budget for Christmas spending, put all the money into that account and then use your debit card. 

Shop All Year

Yes, you are trying to save money, but if you start your Christmas shopping a little bit every month by the end of the year you will already have a special gift ready for everyone.


Take advantage of all the sales that happen throughout the year and purchase something whenever you can. By the end of the year, you will have saved money and avoided the Christmas shopping rush.

Get the Gifts You Need


Getting gifts for the people you love at Christmas is critical. You don't want to disappoint anybody. However, gift-giving can rack up some very high bills. It's always a good idea to be as prepared as possible so that you can save as much money as you can for the new year. 



Christmas Crafts for Kids

 

Crafting Cheer: Fun and Festive Activities for Kids this Holiday Season



The holidays are a time for joy, family, and creating lasting memories. And what better way to embrace the spirit of the season than with some fun and festive crafting with your kids? Crafting with little ones is a wonderful way to:

  • Bond and Connect: Spending quality time together creating something special is a heartwarming experience for both parents and children.
  • Boost Creativity: Crafts allow kids to explore their imaginations and develop their artistic skills.
  • Make Memories: These homemade decorations and gifts will be cherished for years to come, bringing back fond memories of the holidays whenever they're seen.
  • Spread Holiday Cheer: Handmade ornaments and cards can be used to decorate your home or gifted to loved ones, adding a personalized touch to the season.


Water Bottle Christmas Bowling Game by Sustain My Craft Habit

Accordion Folded Trees by A Little Pinch of Perfect




Clay Pot Reindeer by Julie Measures

Yarn Wrapped Trees by Made with Happy

Easy Rudolph Craft by Glue Sticks and Gumdrops

Clothespin Reindeer Ornaments by Fun Money Mom

Printable Christmas Puppets by The Printables Fairy





Paper Straw Christmas Tree Cards by Honey and Lime

Paper Plate Christmas Trees by Mama of Minis

Handprint Reindeer by Little Ladoo

Pasta Angel Ornaments by The Keel Deal

Air Dry Clay Ornaments by Mimosas and Motherhood

Santa S’more Ornaments by Whispered Inspirations





Play Doh Ornaments by Sweet Silly Sara

Paper Straw Christmas Tree Ornaments by Made in a Pinch

Crafting for All Ages:

The beauty of holiday crafts is that there's something for everyone, regardless of age or skill level. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • For the Littlest Crafters: Even toddlers can get in on the fun with simple activities like handprint ornaments, decorating pre-cut felt shapes, or sorting colorful pasta for ornaments.
  • Preschool Powerhouses: Preschoolers will enjoy creating collages with construction paper and glitter, decorating cookies, or making pipe cleaner candy canes.
  • School-Age Fun: School-aged children can tackle more intricate projects like decorating mugs with paint pens, crafting paper snowflakes, or constructing gingerbread houses.

Tips for a Successful Craft Session:

  • Set the Mood: Put on some festive music, light some holiday candles, and wear Santa hats for some extra cheer!
  • Gather Your Supplies: Make sure you have everything you need before you start to avoid any meltdowns.
  • Embrace the Mess: Holidays are about making memories, not creating a Pinterest-perfect craft session. Lay down some newspaper or a tablecloth to protect surfaces and let the creativity flow!
  • Keep it Age-Appropriate: Choose projects that are suited to your child's skill level to avoid frustration.
  • Focus on Fun: The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the time spent together creating something special.

Get Ready to Craft!

Stay tuned for our upcoming craft tutorials, where we'll provide step-by-step instructions for a variety of engaging and festive Christmas crafts that you and your kids can create together. From adorable ornaments to delightful decorations, we have something for everyone to make this holiday season merry and bright!


Find more favorite Christmas crafts here:

Christmas Gnome Ornaments

Rudolph Ornaments

Mickey Mouse Bell Ornaments

Mickey Mouse Gift Tag Ornaments