Festive Fun with DIY Christmas Ornaments
The holiday season is upon us, bringing joy, warmth, and the perfect opportunity to create cherished memories with your children. It can be hard on everyone trying to stick to a “regular” school routine during these weeks leading up to Christmas, so why not relax the reins on the bookwork and instead do some hands-on, arts-and-crafts activities?
Teach the kids how to help you wrap Christmas gifts, bake cookies, or—one of the best ways to celebrate—make homemade ornaments together! These crafts aren’t only fun—they also allow your family to add a personal, heartfelt touch to your holiday décor.
Here’s an idea for one simple yet delightful craft: DIY Cinnamon Stick Stars.
DIY Cinnamon Stick Stars
Nothing says "Christmas" like the warm, spicy scent of cinnamon. These stars are as charming as they are easy to make!
What You’ll Need:
Cinnamon sticks: You’ll need 5 for each star. They’re available in most craft stores or grocery stores.
Twine or string: Go for rustic twine, red-and-white baker’s string, or any color that matches your theme.
Hot glue: A glue gun works best for quick and strong bonds.
Decorative items: Think of small buttons, ribbons, glittery beads, mini pinecones, or even dried orange slices for a festive touch.
Steps to Create Your Stars:
Arrange the cinnamon sticks:
Lay out 5 cinnamon sticks in a star shape. This step can be a fun challenge for kids as they figure out how to angle the sticks just right.Glue the corners:
Carefully glue the ends of the sticks together where they intersect. Tip: Work in small sections and hold each corner for a few seconds to ensure the glue sets properly.Wrap it up with twine:
Wrap twine around the glued corners for extra stability and a cozy, rustic look. Add a small knot or bow at each corner to enhance the design.Let the kids get creative:
This is where the magic happens! Let your kids decorate the stars with small buttons, beads, or ribbons (You can use the glue gun for them if they’re too young to handle it themselves). You can also dab some glitter glue for a shimmering finish.Hang and admire:
Tie a loop of twine at the top of each star and hang them on your Christmas tree, from the mantel, or anywhere you need to add a festive touch. These stars also make adorable toppers for wrapped gifts or festive table decorations!
Extra Tips for Success:
Safety first: Supervise young children closely while using the glue gun or scissors.
Themed decorations: Coordinate the colors of your decorations to match your overall holiday theme (e.g., red and green, gold and white, or even rustic, natural tones).
Memories in the making: Write the date or your child’s name on the back of the stars to create keepsakes you’ll cherish for years to come.
Why Holiday Crafts Matter
Crafting together isn’t just about creating decorations or getting an afternoon off “school.” It’s a way to build your child’s confidence, encourage creativity, and create a tradition they’ll fondly remember. It’s about connection, laughter, and turning simple moments into treasured family memories.
Remember, the books will still be waiting in January. Make the most of the moment in front of you today.
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Because our kids deserve better,
Amy
