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28 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • November 2024 Christmas Decorations The holiday season is the perfect time to get creative and make lasting memories with your kids. DIY Christmas decorations are not only a fun way to spend time together but also help you personalize your home with unique, handmade touches. Here are some of the best DIY Christmas decorations you can create with your kids, from ornaments to festive garlands. Salt dough ornaments are a classic Christmas craft that's easy and fun for kids of all ages. You can create adorable tree ornaments in any shape you like, from Christmas trees to stars and candy canes. MATERIALS 1 cup of flour 1 cup of salt 1/2 cup of water Cookie cutters Paint and glitter for decorating String or ribbon INSTRUCTIONS 1. Mix the flour, salt, and water to form a dough. 2. Roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to create holiday shapes. 3. Poke a small hole at the top of each ornament for stringing. 4. Bake the ornaments at 250°F for 2-3 hours or until hard. 5. Once cool, let your kids paint and decorate them with glitter. 6. Thread a ribbon through the hole to hang them on the tree. Best DIY to Create with Your Kids Salt Dough Ornaments Making paper snowflakes is a simple yet beautiful way to bring winter indoors. It's a great craft for developing fine motor skills and unleashing creativity. MATERIALS White paper or colored paper Scissors String or tape (for hanging) Paper Snowflakes INSTRUCTIONS 1. Fold a square piece of paper in half diagonally, then fold it in half again to form a smaller triangle. 2. Fold the triangle into thirds, and then trim the ends so it's even. 3. Have your child cut small shapes and patterns along the folded edges. 4. Unfold the paper to reveal a unique snowflake! 5. Hang the snowflakes with string or tape them to windows for a wintery touch. Turn simple pine cones into mini Christmas trees with some paint, glitter, and craft supplies. This fun craft brings a touch of nature into your holiday decor. MATERIALS Pine cones (gathered from outside or bought at a craft store) Green acrylic paint Small pom-poms, beads, or sequins Glue Star stickers or small star cutouts for the tree topper INSTRUCTIONS 1. Paint the pine cones green and let them dry com- pletely. 2. Use glue to attach small pom-poms, beads, or sequins as "ornaments." 3. Top each pine cone tree with a small star sticker or cutout. 4. Display your mini Christmas trees on a shelf or mantle. Pine Cone Christmas Trees