Need a quick idea for a special kid? Since the affordable pre-Christmas shipping window is pretty much closed, and the local shops are just plain crazy, ’tis the time for a little last-minute D.I.Y.
Here are ten terrific gifts that won’t require much effort or cash. These also make fun projects for kids on Christmas vacation. And bonus! Most of these are literacy-themed or provide a nice workout for those fine motor skills.
- Make it Snow! Cut strips and circles out of white shelf liner (Contact Paper) and attach to sheets of parchment paper or waxed paper for easy peeling. (Peeling and sticking is great fine motor work for little hands.) If you want to be fancy, you can download a package label here. You could also include a free Let it Snow Banner, available here.
- Make candy cane play dough. I like this recipe from Cook With Kids. Ah, I LOVE fresh, squishy, minty play dough!
- Speaking of play dough, two of my sons made this Woodsy Playland from My Small Potatoes for their brother last year, and it’s still one of their favorites! Just gather up some winter-themed toys, make a fresh batch of play dough and you’re all set! Use it to act out a favorite winter story!
- Print these Build-a-Letter shapes on holiday-themed decorative paper for some holiday letter building fun.
- Make a new set of bookmarks like these, from Classroom D.I.Y.
- Make blank writing or drawing journals from old book jackets.
- Make a family photo puzzle like this one from One Smiley Monkey. Or use an old book jacket to make a puzzle!
- Gather art supplies to create this Puppet Making Kit, from Childhood 101.
- Make your own set of story stones.
- Do you make up original stories at bedtime? Type them up and bind them in your own family story anthology.
Happy gifting!