by Sarah Heller

Created on: November 28, 2009

Pre-school aged children like to work on craft projects, but crafts designed for elementary-school aged kids can be frustrating. Below is a list of six crafts that work well for toddlers in group settings such as a day care or a nursery school, or individually. Before starting, remember to take precautions since this age group loves to explore. Use washable markers or crayons and non-toxic glue, and always keep kids this age under the direct supervision of an adult.

Paper chain
Supplies: Assortment of colored construction paper, scissors, glue

Start by cutting the construction paper into 1 inch strips. Older children can cut or tear the paper themselves, younger ones will probably need some help. If desired, let the child decorate the paper before they make the chain. Next, show the child how to put a small spot of glue at one end of the paper strip. Fold over the other end to make a ring, overlapping by about a half inch. Take another piece of paper and put it through the ring that was just made. Repeat the steps just described; this should form two linked rings. Continue adding rings onto the chain until the child or class is satisfied with the length. This chain can now be used to decorate a classroom, a tree, or just about anything else the child can imagine.

Coloring Pages

Supplies: coloring pages, crayons or markers, stickers (optional)

Coloring pages are simple to do and easy to make for any season, including Christmas. If you have drawing skills, you can make you own by drawing a simple outline. Otherwise, type Christmas coloring pages into any on-line search engine to find suitable pictures. Coloring pages are great for even the youngest of children (as long as they are past the crayon eating stage), and can be a good activity to get a rambunctious group of children to calm down after a party. If possible, consider providing stickers to make this project more exciting for older children.

Ornaments
Supplies: construction paper, crayons or markers, glue (optional), scissors, glitter (optional), yarn or ribbon, a hole puncher

Start by having the children cut a pre-drawn shape from a piece of construction paper. For younger children, start with pre-cut shapes. To extend this project, have children pick a pre-made cardboard pattern, then trace and cut the shape on their own. Next, let children draw and color; making a unique ornament. For older children, consider adding glitter and glue to the project. Once they're finished, use either a hole puncher or scissors to make a hole in the top of their ornament. For younger children, consider placing a hole in the top of the shape before decorating begins; this will prevent meltdowns from children who do not want a hole being put through their artwork. Thread yarn or ribbon through the hole and knot the ends. Finally, let children place their ornaments on a tree.

Christmas cards
Supplies: construction paper, crayons or markers, assorted art supplies (see below), glue

Give children a blank sheet of construction paper. After having the children fold the sheet in half, use materials such as magazine cutouts, glitter, lace, and ribbon to decorate. As children work, help them write a message on the cards and discuss who they would like to give their card to this Christmas. This is great activity for older toddlers who are learning how to write.

Wrapping paper

Supplies: paper, crayons or markers, assorted art supplies (see below)

With some large sheets of paper, some stickers and some pens, toddlers can have fun making their own special wrapping paper. Some groups may even want to try hand or foot painting. Use the paper to wrap a gift from the child to a special friend or relative.

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