The lead-up to Christmas is a magical time in childcare settings. Little learners are buzzing with excitement, and educators are searching for meaningful, low-prep activities that channel that energy into creativity and hands-on learning. Christmas craft is the perfect way to support fine motor skills, sensory exploration and self-expression — all while filling your centre with festive cheer.
Here are three easy Christmas craft activities using simple arts and craft supplies available from Edu-21. They’re affordable, engaging, and designed with early learning in mind.
1. Paper Plate Christmas Wreaths
A classic craft that children love — simple, colourful and perfect for display.
What you need:
How to make it:
Cut the middle out of each paper plate to create a wreath shape. Children can paint the ring green or collage it with paper pieces. Once dry, they decorate with festive materials — pom poms, stars, sequins or colourful stickers. Finish with a ribbon bow to hang on cubbies or classroom doors.
Why educators love it:
This activity supports fine motor skills, creativity and colour recognition. It’s also quick to set up and makes a beautiful Christmas keepsake.
2. Christmas Tree Collage Cones
A 3D festive activity with plenty of sensory exploration.
What you need:
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Green cardstock
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Buttons, sequins, pipe cleaners, glitter glue
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Stickers
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Star cut-outs
How to make it:
Roll the cardstock into a cone shape and secure at the back. Children then decorate their “tree” with a variety of textures — sticking on buttons, shaping pipe cleaners, adding glitter glue and placing a star on top. No two trees will ever look the same, which encourages creative decision-making.
Why educators love it:
This craft introduces children to texture, pattern and spatial awareness while also promoting fine motor control. The cone shape also stands up beautifully for room displays.
3. Handprint Reindeer Cards
A heartwarming keepsake for families during the festive season.
What you need:
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Brown paint or brown craft paper
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Googly eyes
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Red pom poms
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Card blanks or folded A4 paper
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Black markers
How to make it:
Paint each child’s hand and press onto paper to create a reindeer shape (fingers become the antlers). Once dry, add googly eyes, a red pom pom nose and draw the mouth or extra details with markers. Mount the artwork onto a folded card for a special take-home gift.
Why educators love it:
Parents treasure these cards year after year, and the activity helps children explore shape, print-making and emotional expression.
Make Christmas Craft Simple and Joyful
These activities bring festive fun to the classroom without the stress of complicated prep. With just a few essential art supplies, you can create meaningful experiences that help children explore creativity, develop fine motor skills and enjoy the magic of Christmas.
If you’d like help selecting the right craft materials for your centre or exploring our full Christmas range, browse our collection at Edu-21 — full of easy, educator-friendly resources for the busy end-of-year season.