The countdown to Christmas is on, and keeping little ones entertained can be tricky in the lead-up to the big day. To help, we’ve gathered some simple, festive crafts that your children can make at home with minimal fuss and low-cost materials. These activities are perfect for keeping kids busy, creative, and feeling festive — all while using things you probably already have in your cupboards!

Salt Dough Ornaments

These classic decorations are a holiday favourite. All you need is flour, salt, and water to make the dough. Your children can shape it into stars, hearts, or little animals. Once baked, they can decorate with paints or glitter to hang on the tree.
Step-by-step guide: BBC Good Food – Salt Dough Ornaments

3D Paper Snowflakes

Bring a bit of winter magic indoors with 3D paper snowflakes. With just paper, scissors, glue, and a stapler, children can create beautiful, intricate designs to hang around the house or across windows.
How to: Red Ted Art – 3D Paper Snowflakes

Reindeer Handprint Craft

This craft is perfect for younger children. Using brown paper or card, your child can trace their hands to make antlers and create a cute reindeer head. Add a red pompom for Rudolph and you’ve got a festive keepsake!
Instructions: Crafting Jeannie – Handprint Reindeer

DIY Christmas Crackers

Get creative with Christmas crackers using empty cardboard tubes, wrapping paper, and little treats or jokes. Tie the ends with ribbon and you’ve made your own festive fun. These are great for family activities and add a personal touch to your Christmas table.
Step-by-step: Cowling & Wilcox – DIY Christmas Crackers

These crafts are easy to make, budget-friendly, and will give your children a real sense of achievement. Best of all, they are a wonderful way to spend quality time together in the run-up to Christmas.