Not sure how to entertain your kids during Winter Break? Why not try Christmas Sensory Crafts!
Sensory Crafting is a great way to keep kids engaged for hours at a time! Crafting encourages kids to develop their creativity, while also improving fine motor skills. Plus, these crafts were chosen particularly for their unique sensory elements. From a DIY hot chocolate bar, to tactile Christmas trees, to gingerbread scented cloud dough, this Christmas Sensory Craft roundup has it all!
Benefits of Sensory Crafts
Sensory crafts are great for kids of all ages and abilities, but they can yield particularly good results in neurodivergent children, like those on the autism spectrum. Parents of Autistic children know that many of them experience sensory inputs differently than normal children. Typically, sensory sensitivities manifest in one of two forms: “hypersensitivity” which refers to the experience of more heightened and intense sensory inputs, and “hyposensitivity” which refers to the experience of reduced sensory inputs.
Children with hypersensitivity can use crafts to practice sensory tolerance. Crafts offer a safe environment in which to try interacting with new inputs and discover more about their likes and dislikes.
Children with hyposensitivity may love the unique textures, smells, and colors involved in these crafts. Crafts give them a safe environment in which to explore sensory extremes.
Crafts are also a great opportunity for children to practice fine motor skills. Learn how to safely use a variety of tools, including their own hands, wrists, and fingers!
We strongly encourage parents to get involved in these projects with their kids from start to finish. Give your child instructions and help lead them through the different steps of the project. This helps enforce ideas of “first, then” and can help them complete future projects on their own. You can also engage your child in conversation about their crafts: which colors do they like using? Which textures feel best? Where are you going to put this felt ornament? Every moment provides an opportunity for learning and growing together.
Hot Chocolate Party by Still Playing School
You might think that calling “A Hot Chocolate Party” a craft is a bit of a stretch…but this article from Still Playing School walks you through how you can use Hot Chocolate an opportunity to practice fine motor skills. Plus – you’ll have a yummy treat to enjoy afterwards!
The Grinch’s Frozen Heart by Cultivating Brilliant Minds
If you have a Grinch fan in your house…this one’s for you! This project lets kids play with melting ice into water, experimenting with different methods of melting ice cubes. As the ice melts…the bright red hearts shine through!
Gingerbread Cloud Dough by Sugar, Spice, and Glitter
Cloud dough is a delightful alternative to kinetic sand and play dough. Made from ingredients you already have in the house, this dough is power soft, but will hold shape when compacted. Kids will love the sensory stimulation this craft provides! This recipe adds an olfactory dimension by scenting the dough with gingerbread spices.
Christmas Snowstorm in a Jar by One Little Project
Instead of waiting for the perfect snowstorm to blow through…why not make your own? Using an alka-seltzer tablet, this craft creates a sparkling snowglobe experiment that will engage children who love visual stimuli.
All Natural Christmas Sensory Bin by Paper and Glue
Introduce your child to sensory stimuli from the natural world with this All Natural Christmas Sensory Bin by Paper and Glue! This bin inspires creativity through exposure to a variety of scents and textures.
Christmas Lights Crafts by This Tiny Blue House
These festive “string lights” are perfect for kids who are learning how to spell their own name. First, color each letter with a bright marker of your choosing. Then, string them together in order by spelling out your name!
Bead Wreath Craft by The Craft Patch Blog
These beaded wreaths are super easy to put together! Beads are perfect for developing fine motor skills. Once completed, these wreaths make adorable ornaments.
Mix and Match Stone Snowmen by In The Playroom
These stone snowmen allow your kids to express themselves! Give your snowmen unique and colorful accessories, then play with how you can create different snowman stacks! Perfect for those who have an instinct for fashion.
Two Ingredient Fake Snow by Engaging Littles
Playing in the snow is a treasured Christmas experience, but oftentimes, actual inch counts and snow textures can disappoint. This homemade snow provides a controlled sensory experience that simulates the senses. Build snowmen, shapes, and more in this fake snow!
Tactile Christmas Tree by Wonder Baby
Parents of neurodiverse children will appreciate that this craft is designed with accommodations in mind, and this article will walk parents through prepping the craft for their child. Kids will love experiencing the different textures of the tree and ornaments, as well as having the opportunity to express themselves through tree design.
About ABA-LLC
ABA-LLC is one of the largest suppliers of Behavior Support in the State of Kentucky. Since 2007, the agency has created innovative strategies to improve the lives of unique individuals. ABA-LLC works with around 190 contractors, each dedicated to building an inclusive culture that celebrates individuals of all abilities. No matter who you are, you can reach your goals at ABA-LLC.
ABA-LLC is set apart from its competitors by its uniquely person-centered approach. The agency strives to provide services from a place of deep love for the population they serve. Their work exemplifies the belief that every individual has a right to live a fulfilling and independent life integrated within their communities. There is no objective to change a person, but rather to give them the tools they need to succeed. B.F. Skinner summarizes this vision in his quote: “I’m not trying to change people. All I want is to change the world in which they live.” Learn more about us at https://aba-llc.com/