And if you’re a busy parent trying to keep December calm-ish, meaningful-ish, and not covered in glitter by 9am… then these simple, low-cost ideas are for you.

Three easy makes – straight from the crafty minds of our experienced Holiday Club Crew - that children can genuinely get involved in. No hour-long prep, no quietly finishing it yourself after bedtime… just ‘moment-in-time’ gifts that mean something to the people who receive them.

 

Christmas Bark for Their Favourite Teacher

The perfect treat for teachers, childminders, or anyone who deserves a little chocolatey cheer.

You’ll need:

• A microwavable container


• Chocolate (white, milk, dark - or all three!)


• Toppings like candy canes, marshmallows, biscuits, or sprinkles

How to make it:

1. Break your chocolate into pieces, place in a microwave-safe container, and heat in 30-second bursts until melted (stirring in between).


2. Carefully remove (it might be hot!) and swirl the different types of chocolate for a marbled effect.


3. Spread the chocolate evenly on grease-proof paper or shallow tray and let the fun begin - decorate with all your favourite toppings.


4. Pop it in the fridge to set, then snap into pieces once firm.

Top tip: If you’re gifting it, include all their favourite toppings and pop it into a clear bag tied with ribbon for an extra festive touch.

 

Handprint Snowman Ornament for Grandparents

A keepsake to treasure year after year - and the perfect way to capture those little hands before they grow another inch!

You’ll need:

• Air-dry clay or salt dough (see recipe below)


• White and blue acrylic paint


• Paintbrushes


• Ribbon or string


• Cookie cutter (or mug)


• Permanent marker

How to make it:

1. Roll out your clay or dough to the thickness of a £1 coin.


2. Press your child’s hand gently into the dough to create a clear imprint.


3. Cut around the handprint using a cutter or freehand and poke a small hole for hanging.


4. Leave to dry for a few days (or longer if it’s thick).


5. Once dry, paint the handprint white (his is the snowman) and the background blue - you can even add little white dots to the background to create little snowflakes.


6. Once the paint is dry use your markers to draw faces, scarves and buttons.


7. Thread ribbon through the hole and add your child’s name and the year.

Top tip: A coat of PVA glue or Mod Podge helps seal and protect your ornament.

Salt dough recipe: Mix 250g plain flour, 125g salt, and 125g water until smooth. Adjust with a little more water or flour as needed.

 

Reindeer Handprint Card for Aunties and Uncles

A classic handmade card that always brings a smile.

You’ll need:

• Card or thick paper


• Brown paint and a brush


• Googly eyes


• Red pom-pom (or fingerprint for the nose)


• Glue or Pritt Stick

How to make it:

1. Paint your child’s hand brown and press onto the centre of the card.


2. Use a paintbrush to extend the fingers into antlers.


3. Stick on googly eyes and a red nose, then add your own message or doodles.

Top tip: Add glitter or fingerprints as snowflakes for extra sparkle!

 

BONUS: Homemade Wrapping Paper

Make your handmade gifts even more special by wrapping them in your own designs.

You’ll need:

• A roll of white or brown paper


• Paint, pens, or crayons


• Cookie cutters, brushes, or stamps


• Optional: glitter, fingers, sponges - anything goes!

How to make it:

1. Roll out your paper and tape the edges down.


2. Decorate using cookie cutters dipped in paint, fingerprints for holly berries, or drawings of favourite Christmas things.


3. Once dry, wrap your gifts and admire your work - every piece unique, personal and full of love.

Top tip: Personalise each sheet for its recipient - include their favourite things or even a doodle of them!

 

A Little Christmas Magic (Without the Overwhelm)

These crafts aren’t about perfection - they’re about connection. They’re about slowing down (a tiny bit), getting stuck in together and helping little ones learn that the best gifts don’t come from a shop… they come from them.

And if you’d like more simple, meaningful ideas like this - the kind that fit real family life our newsletter is full of them! From seasonal inspo to free downloads and early access to Holiday Club bookings across Stockport – where the magic really happens!

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