Many schools are virtual this holiday season, so I know Christmas parties may not happen, but here are some great ideas parents can do at home with the entire family for a fun family night this holiday season!
For many schools, THE Christmas Party is one of only a few parties classrooms are allowed to have these days, so I am a firm believer to go help teachers and go all out and make it special for all the boys and girls. I love when my kids bring home the classroom flyer asking parents to check mark drinks, chips, cupcakes, or cookies for the party. Our teachers work hard day in and day out and I am a firm believer that parents should try and help out during their kiddo's Christmas classroom party and thank the teacher. I have a whole separate article this week on teacher gifts teachers will love! I take time off work to attend my kids Christmas party to help wherever needed. This is the first year Grace is at the middle school and I didn't realize how much I would miss her classroom parties; so I have made it a point to make time for Jackson's Christmas party this year!
Don't worry if you are not Ree Drummond or Paula Deen (because I am definitely not either, too)!
I wanted to find easy DIY snacks you could craft together with your "homemade" snack. These snacks are easy, fun and delicious; but more importantly, won't break the bank. I want to encourage you to get your kids involved and have fun with them creating their Christmas masterpieces.
Each of the ideas below can be given to each child!
1. Play-Doh Ornament- What kid does not love play-doh and this is a great non-food gift. I wasn't crazy about the printable provided so I made my own printable! I found the mini play-dohs and Big Lots (10-pack for $5), but they can probably be found at most retailers.
2. Donut Reindeer- I did this snack last year and it was a big hit. I actually had some edible eyes left from Halloween that I used.
3. Rudolph Reindeer Candy Bar- There are many variations to this craft. I took a lot from this link, but I added the brown card stock or brown construction paper to cover the candy bar. I found that hot glue worked better to keep everything together; so parents will need to help with the hot glue.
4. Santa Oreo- By far, my favorite one we made! I also love that I didn't have to dip the entire oreo (chocolate dipping is not my strength).
5. String Cheese Snowman- By far the easiest craft. All I had to do was make the hats and use sharpies to make his eyes, nose, mouth, and buttons; and add a ribbon scarf. You will need to keep this snack refrigerated until the party.
6. Santa Hat Cupcakes- To be honest, I really wanted to make this for my WJHL morning show appearance, but ran out of time and didn't get to Michael's for the Wilton Red Color Mist. I even bought the cones. It's not always easy to make everything from scratch. One of our long-time Macaroni Kid friends is Give Bakery Because. Easy-to-create gift ideas to celebrate moments in life, using delicious products from the bakery department in your favorite grocery store. Follow them on Pinterest and Instagram for more ideas. Visit your local bakery for already made, delicious cupcakes and then add your special touch.
7. Cookies- Support our local bakeries! I love the idea of using white CD sleeves as individual cookie sleeves and adding a small Christmas touch.
8. Grinch Punch- This one was everyone's favorite on my WJHL morning segment and it is super easy to make with three ingredients. I didn't have enough time to show everyone the sugared cup! What would Christmas be without the Grinch!
9. No-Cook Cinnamon Ornaments- Every party needs a homemade ornament. Every salt dough recipe I found recommended baking the ornament for best results. I wanted a no-bake option and I love the fact this has the scent of cinnamon. You can get the kids involved; depending on their age level. If they are under the age of 7 I would recommend pre-making the dough and rolling it out but allowing them to choose a cookie cutter and making their hole. If they are older they can probably handle making the dough and would probably enjoy being hands-on!
10. Dice Doubles Game- Can't have a party without a game. Depending on your class size, you may need to divide the students into smaller groups. The big decision is what to put inside the box!
Don't be intimidated by getting crafty with any of the above ideas. Don't be afraid to get your kids involved. If you can, volunteer at your kiddo(s)' party this year to be a part of the fun. Most important have FUN!
