The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, but it can also be overwhelming for children with special needs. Sensory-friendly activities can provide a safe and enjoyable way for these children to participate in holiday crafts and festivities. Here are some holiday craft ideas that are perfect for kids with special needs.
1. Scented Ornaments
Scented ornaments are a great way to engage children’s sense of smell while creating a festive decoration. To make scented ornaments, mix together cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg with applesauce and glue. Roll out the mixture and use cookie cutters to create festive shapes. Use a straw to create a hole for hanging and bake the ornaments in the oven. Once cooled, tie a ribbon through the hole and hang on the tree. This is a fun and easy craft that will engage children’s senses of smell and touch.
2. Glitter Jars
Glitter jars are a great way to help children calm down and focus during the holiday season. To make a glitter jar, fill a clear plastic jar with water and add glitter glue and glitter. Seal the jar with hot glue and shake it up to create a calming snow globe effect. Children can use these glitter jars to calm down during holiday festivities or to help with anxiety.
3. Sensory Stockings
Sensory stockings are a great way to engage children’s senses of touch and sound. Fill a stocking with various items that have different textures and sounds, such as soft fabric, crinkly paper, and jingle bells. Children can explore the different items in the stocking and engage their senses while creating a festive decoration.
4. Edible Snowmen
Edible snowmen are a fun and tasty way to engage children’s sense of taste while creating a festive snack. To make edible snowmen, use marshmallows, pretzel sticks, and candy decorations to create a snowman. Children can use their creativity to decorate the snowman with different candies and flavors.
5. Paper Plate Wreaths
Paper plate wreaths are a fun and easy way for children to create a festive decoration. Cut out the center of a paper plate and let children decorate the remaining ring with paint, glitter, and other decorations. Children can use their creativity and fine motor skills to create a unique holiday wreath.
These sensory-friendly holiday crafts are a great way for children with special needs to participate in holiday festivities while engaging their senses and creativity. By providing a safe and enjoyable way for children to participate in holiday crafts, we can help make the holiday season a joyous and inclusive time for all children.
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