Fun Christmas Activities for the Kids

This picture just makes me smile!  Christmas captures the kid in all of us and with Christmas break fast approaching for my first grader and preschooler, I've been searching Pinterest for some fun and SIMPLE activities I can have ready for them, both before the big day and during the week-plus that follows into the New Year.  I hope this list is helpful for all you moms out there!

1. Elf Application

Check out the book "How Santa Got His Job" at your local library, then follow this link for your free printable and super cute "Elf Application" for your kid(s) to complete.

http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2011-01-11T16%3A48%3A00-08%3A00&max-results=9


2. Christmas Action Cards

Kids are always wanting to move, especially mine!  This is a clever collection of cards to keep them active and giggling.  Follow this link to print yours for free...

http://www.oopseydaisyblog.com/2010/12/book-advent-day-20-christmas-action.html


3. Hot Cocoa Dippers

Here is the link for this simple project that could be turned into a last-minute gift...
http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/christmas-ideas/easy-holiday-decorations#slide-5
Grab some drinking straws, large marshmallows, chocolate chips and sprinkles, and have your kids help you make these cute little dippers!


4. Snow Paint

From the Oopsey Daisy Blog, where I found the Christmas Action Cards.  This is just equal parts shaving cream and Elmer's glue.  Mix together and let your kids use their own creativity to paint snowmen, polar bears, and other snowy scenes.  Now if we could just get some REAL snow here in Cincinnati, I'd be a happy mom!

5. Nativity Scene

My part-time job is at our church, as Associate Director of Children's Ministries, so this list would not be complete without an activity honoring Jesus's birthday!  This is a really great, free printable "color your own" nativity.  Follow this link to print...

http://catholicicing.com/2009/12/diy-printable-nativity-for-kids/