by Nancy F Morgan

Created on: October 27, 2009

Crafting with children at Christmas time is not only fun but can also be naturally inexpensive. Children are generally not concerned with all of the glitz and glimmer that can preoccupy adults at this time of the year. Children tend to enjoy the more simple pleasures of the season. Here are a few crafts that will brighten your children's holiday spirit without burdening your wallet.

Popcorn garland has been a favorite for many years. It is fun and inexpensive to make. Or for just a few dollars more, you can introduce this classic to your children in a new, more colorful project.

Materials needed:

Ball of kite string

Popcorn (popped)

Dried cranberries or other dried fruits

Pecans or walnuts (optional as these can be costly if you don't grow them yourself)

Holiday colored marshmallows

Embroidery needle

Start by threading the kite string through the eye of the embroidery needle pulling through just far enough that the string will not pull out of the eye while stringing items. Begin stringing one by one, alternating the popped popcorn, dried fruits and colored marshmallows. At varying points on the string add a pecan or walnut. If the nuts break when threading the needle through; as this is sometimes a problem depending on the moisture level of the nut, they may be tied into the mix instead of threaded. Just use the end of the string that is free of other items to tie around the nuts. For younger children who may poke little fingers with a needle, you can tightly tie one end of the string on a toothpick and let them string only marshmallows alternating colors. Hang the garland for decoration throughout the holidays. After the holidays are over and decorations are being taken down, allow the children to take their creation outdoors and hang in a tree. They will enjoy watching as the birds come to feast on their own holiday treat. Leave the string in the tree too! The birds will use it when they soon begin to build their nests!

Pine cone Christmas tree is another fun and inexpensive classic. Pine cones have long been a favorite holiday crafting item for the cost-conscious family. And the most enjoyable part of the craft is the part that is completely free! Take the children on a walk through the woods or a park to collect pine cones of various shapes and sizes. Wear gloves! The pine cones are prickly on the ends. If you do not have access to pine cones in nature, you can purchase an inexpensive bag at any craft store and most department stores with a crafting department.

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