Decorating for the holidays is a magical experience, and involving kids in the process makes it even more special. Here are some fun, safe, and creative ideas to transform your home into a festive wonderland while keeping it kid-friendly.
1. DIY Ornaments
Homemade ornaments are a timeless holiday tradition. Let your kids express their creativity with these ideas:
- Salt Dough Ornaments: Create shapes using cookie cutters, bake, and decorate with paint and glitter.
- Paper Ornaments: Cut out holiday shapes from colorful paper and let kids decorate them with markers, stickers, or stamps.
- Pinecone Ornaments: Collect pinecones, paint them, and add a string to hang them on the tree.
2. Kid-Crafted Garlands
Turn crafting into a bonding activity with these easy-to-make garlands:
- Popcorn and Cranberry Garland: Thread popcorn and cranberries onto string for a classic holiday look.
- Paper Chain Garland: Let kids cut and loop strips of colorful paper to create a festive chain.
- Felt Shapes Garland: Cut shapes like stars, trees, or snowflakes from felt and string them together.
3. Personalized Stockings
Encourage each child to decorate their own stocking. Use fabric markers, glitter glue, and felt shapes to make unique designs.
4. Holiday Window Art
Turn your windows into a festive display with washable markers, window clings, or faux snow spray. Let kids draw snowmen, reindeer, or holiday greetings.
5. Kid-Safe Tree Decorating
Make tree decorating fun and safe for little ones by:
- Placing shatterproof ornaments on the lower branches.
- Letting kids hang soft, lightweight decorations like ribbons or felt ornaments.
- Using a smaller, kid-sized tree for their own decorations.
6. Seasonal Sensory Jars
Create sensory jars filled with holiday-themed items like fake snow, mini ornaments, or glitter. Seal them tightly for kids to shake and explore.
7. Festive Table Decorations
Let kids help set the holiday table with handmade place cards, napkin rings, or centerpieces. Use natural elements like pine branches or acorns for a rustic touch.
8. Holiday Countdown Calendar
Make a countdown calendar together with envelopes, mini boxes, or paper bags. Fill each day with small treats, activities, or notes of kindness.
9. Outdoor Decorations
Get kids involved in decorating the yard or porch:
- Help them string lights (with adult supervision).
- Let them decorate a mini outdoor tree with weatherproof ornaments.
- Paint wooden cutouts to display.
10. Baking as Decor
Bake holiday cookies or gingerbread houses to display (and eventually eat!). Use colorful icing and sprinkles to make them extra festive.
Tips for Success:
- Choose age-appropriate activities to ensure safety and enjoyment.
- Embrace imperfections—a child’s unique touch makes decorations even more special.
- Create a playlist of holiday music to set the mood while decorating.
Decorating with kids isn’t just about the final result; it’s about creating memories and traditions they’ll cherish for years to come. Happy decorating!
