Crafting Christmas Magic: Child-Friendly DIY Christmas Decor and Personalised Gifts

Jitka Wenham Photography

Christmas is such a magical time of the year when our homes twinkle with lights and festive decorations, becoming enchanting wonderlands that everyone will enjoy! If you have little ones, this blog is perfect! It’s all about making your home not only beautifully festive but also child-friendly. I’ve also given a couple of ideas for precious personalised gifts your little ones can craft and give to all of your loved ones. So, let’s dive into some delightful DIY decorations your kids can create, adding that special touch to your festive decor.

Child-Friendly Christmas Decor

Kid-friendly ornaments: When it comes to decorating with little ones, safety is key. Consider using shatterproof ornaments for your tree, especially if you have curious toddlers eager to explore. Let your children choose their favourite decorations and let them hang them on the tree.

Advent calendar tree: For a unique twist on the traditional advent calendar, create a tree-shaped one! Number 25 small boxes or envelopes and place a delightful treat or activity in each. Your kids will love the daily excitement of discovering what’s hidden behind each door.

Low-hanging decorations: To enhance the decorating experience, place some decorations lower on the tree, allowing your little ones to actively participate in the Christmas decorating.


DIY Christmas Decoration with Kids

Now, let’s get crafty with some easy and enjoyable Christmas decorations you can make with your little helpers.

Salt Dough Ornaments:

Materials:

  • 1 cup plain (all-purpose) flour

  • 1/2 cup salt

  • 1/2 cup water

  • Cookie cutters

  • Acrylic paint

  • Ribbons

Instructions:

  1. Mix the flour, salt, and water to create a dough.

  2. Roll it out and use cookie cutters to make holiday shapes.

  3. Bake at 200°C (390°F) for 2-3 hours or until hardened.

  4. Let them cool, then paint and decorate.

  5. Add ribbons for hanging.

Handprint Reindeer:

Materials:

Brown construction paper

  • Googly eyes

  • Red pom-pom (for the nose)

  • Glue

Instructions:

  1. Trace your child’s hand on the brown paper and cut it out.

  2. Glue on googly eyes and the red pom-pom for the nose.

  3. Add antlers by cutting small strips from the same paper and glueing them above the eyes.

Pinecone Christmas Trees:

Materials:

  • Pinecones

  • Green paint

  • Glitter (optional)

  • Craft sticks

  • Glue

Instructions:

  1. Paint the pinecones green and add glitter if desired.

  2. Glue a craft stick to the bottom to create a trunk.

Personalised gifts

Christmas cards

Materials:

  • Blank cards

  • Coloured paints, pens, and pencils

  • Glitter, stickers, and other decorations

  • Glue stick

Instructions:

  1. Add a festive design to the front of the card with paints, pencils, and pens.

  2. Add glue and decorate with glitter, stickers, etc.

  3. Once dry, write a personalised message inside.

Personalised Photo Frames:

Materials:

  • Plain wooden or cardboard photo frames

  • Acrylic paint in different colours

  • Paintbrushes

  • Glue

  • Decorations (glitter, sequins, stickers, etc.)

  • Printed photo

Instructions:

  1. Paint the entire frame one colour and leave it to dry.

  2. Add a festive design with different paint colours.

  3. Apply glue and decorate with glitter, sequins, etc.

  4. Once dry, add the photograph.


These DIY decorations and gifts add a personal touch to your Christmas decor and provide hours of fun and creativity for your little ones. As a photographer, I understand the importance of cherishing memories; these make perfect keepsakes to bring out every festive season, and your loved ones will adore them. Make sure you snap some photos of your little one whilst they’re having fun with their Christmas crafting! These snapshots become cherished treasures to add to your family photo album.