Hard to believe, but the holidays are right around the corner. Yes, it seems like only yesterday you were poolside with the kids, basking in the glorious summer sun. Now, the kids are back in school and all of those holiday get-togethers are looming.

Not counting the family gatherings, how many events will your child take part in? The parties at school, scouts, the soccer team, and dance class for starters. Instead of running around last-minute (like you did last year) and breaking the bank to buy gifts, why not start preparing now? Make some incredibly easy yet cute and clever gifts with your kids. The rewards are two-fold: you can stay home and spend precious time with your little ones and they can experience the pride and accomplishment that comes from creating a handmade gift. Sure beats fighting someone for a parking space at the mall!

Here are some super-simple holiday craft ideas:

Gift Box Ornaments

Supplies you’ll need:

• little, empty boxes from around the house like baking soda, food coloring, or a box from a bar of soap
• wrapping paper
• string
• glue
• jute (for making garland)

Have the kids wrap each box in their favorite wrapping paper. Glue the string to the box. In just a few minutes, your kid’s have made fun ornaments. Or, thread a piece of jute through string attached to several different boxes. Voila, a one-of-a-kind string of garland.

Pine Cone Christmas Tree

Supplies you’ll need:

• dry pine cones
• green glitter
• glue
• sequins

Paint the pine cone with glue and sprinkle the green glitter over it before the glue dries. Top with a paper star. Glue on the sequins or tinsel to “decorate” the tree. Attach a piece of ribbon and this little Christmas tree becomes an ornament.

For more holiday craft ideas like these, visit AmazingMoms.com.

Tags: holiday ideas, kids activities, holiday crafts, ornaments