There’s nothing like those nostalgic cozy days that bud every December as new year approaches. And while a glass of mulled wine in front of the fire calls our name, we also have to answer the call of the stir crazy kiddos home on winter break. Somehow between new toys and playdates, little ones always seem to find some plenty free time when the gloomiest, snowiest, and coldest of days hit. So when you’ve reached the end of the list, we hope these classic DIY projects let you and your little artists enjoy the last gasps of 2017!
1. Hot Cocoa In A Jar
After an afternoon of sledding and making friends with Frosty, a steaming cup of cocoa certainly hits the spot. Dig those mason jars out of the back cupboard and stuff them with cocoa mix; once the essentials are out of the way, top it off with layers of marshmallows, chocolate chips, or a hint of peppermint for a kick. Whenever the next snowstorm hits you’ll be ready to go in an instant’s notice - no grocery trip required
2. Terrariums
When the snow’s swallowed up the last corner of the garden, it’s time to bring the outdoors inside with a kid-friendly version of one of the most popular DIY’s to date. Head to your local garden store and pick up a few succulent plants and some potting soil ( the smallest bag will do). Plant the succulents in glass jars and top it off with any figurines or landscaping accessories your kids want to add - Army men? Sure! Legos? Why Not! - any personal additions make the garden just a little more special. One of our favorite things about this DIY? Succulent gardens are hearty and can survive rough and tumble any budding gardener might supply.
Catch the DIY bug after helping out the kids? Host your own private flower party for all your gals - this time with plenty of wine to go around!
3. Lavender Lotion Bars
Perfect for the older kids in your crowd, this easy DIY makes the perfect take home for any girl’s night sleepover or get well packages for the winter season. Melt ¾ cups of grated beeswax and a cup of coconut oil over high heat. Once fully combined add a few drops of lavender essential oil or any other fragrance you fancy. Pour the mixture into molds (heart shaped ice cube trays are perfect!) and place in the fridge to harden. Before the evening's over, your kid’s will be asking to take a bath (imagine that?!) and your house will be smelling like the South of France.
4. Monogram Mugs.
If you’re making cocoa, you better be serving it in an extra special mug, right? Craft your own monogram mugs, a la Anthropologie with only three things you probably already have laying around. Grab some white mugs, a few oil-based Sharpie paint pens, and some craft paper. Trace each little ones initial, and stick it on the mug to trace around. Remove the paper and decorate to your heart's content; keep it simple with just their favorite color, or be daring and mix three or four. Bake their personalized mugs at 300 degrees for 35 minutes and voila! Now there’s no way they can confuse mom’s coffee with the cocoa!
