Most days, I’m juggling my 3-year-old, a half-finished cup of coffee, and a to-do list that never seems to end. If you’re a mom too, you probably know that feeling. My little boy is at that curious stage where he wants to “help” with everything — even if that means extra messes and glitter in places glitter should never be.
But honestly, those little moments are what make our home feel magical. That’s why I love finding simple, fun, and realistic projects we can do together. If you’re looking for inspiration that fits real mom life, you’re definitely in the right place.
How to Set Up DIY Christmas Decorations for Families this Festive Season
Start by choosing simple, kid-safe projects and gathering all the materials in one spot so you’re not scrambling in the middle of crafting. Set up a small workspace—like the dining table—with easy-to-clean surfaces and baskets for supplies, so your child can join in without overwhelming chaos. Keep expectations realistic, embrace the mess, and focus on making memories rather than perfect decorations.
1. Salt Dough Handprint Ornaments
There’s something incredibly special about capturing my 3-year-old’s tiny handprint while he’s still little enough to think pressing his hand into dough is the best thing ever. Salt dough ornaments are classic, budget-friendly, and surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re not a crafty mom. I love that these ornaments become keepsakes you can look back on every Christmas — it’s like freezing a little memory in time. Plus, kids enjoy mixing, rolling, and choosing paint colors, which makes it such a fun bonding moment. They’re durable, timeless, and something I know I’ll treasure long after he’s grown.
Tips
- Let your child help mix the dough — it makes them feel involved.
- Keep the dough thickness around ½ inch to prevent cracking.
- Bake slowly at low heat so the ornament dries evenly.
- Paint with acrylics for vibrant color that lasts.
- Add the year on the back to remember when it was made.
2. Popsicle Stick Christmas Trees
Popsicle stick Christmas trees are one of the easiest holiday crafts to make with a toddler. My 3-year-old loves choosing colors and sticking on little pom-poms and sequins, and I love that this craft doesn’t require fancy materials or major prep. These trees look adorable hanging on the tree, taped on walls, or even displayed on the fridge. They’re perfect because they’re lightweight, customizable, and mess-free compared to other crafts. Plus, they’re great for keeping little hands busy while still being simple enough for beginners.
Tips
- Pre-glue the popsicle stick triangle for younger kids.
- Use washable paint to avoid staining clothes.
- Lay out decorations in small bowls for easy access.
- Add a ribbon loop before the glue dries for hanging.
- Write your child’s name and age on the back for memories.
3. Clear Ball Ornaments Filled with Holiday Trinkets
Clear ball ornaments are such a fun way to let your child explore textures and colors. My son loves filling them with tiny bells, fake snow, beads, and mini ribbons — it feels like building his own treasure globe. These ornaments look beautiful on the tree and make great keepsakes because each one is different. I love how customizable they are and how little mess they create. You can buy plastic ones so they’re completely kid-safe, and the decorating possibilities are endless.
Tips
- Choose plastic ornaments instead of glass for toddlers.
- Use lightweight fillers so the ornament doesn’t get heavy.
- Add ribbon or washi tape to the top for decoration.
- Encourage your child to pick a color theme for fun learning.
- Seal the top with a dab of glue if you want it toddler-proof.
4. Paper Snowflakes Wall Display
Making paper snowflakes is one of the simplest but most magical Christmas crafts. My 3-year-old enjoys folding (or trying to fold!) and watching the snowflake “appear” when we open it up. You can use white paper, colored paper, or even leftover wrapping paper. Once you’ve made a bunch, you can tape them to a wall to create your own winter wonderland at home. It’s a great DIY décor because it’s basically free, takes just minutes to make, and instantly transforms a room.
Tips
- Use thinner paper so it’s easier for kids to fold.
- Draw simple cut lines for your child to follow.
- Add glitter glue for extra sparkle (optional but fun!).
- Tape them at different heights to create dimension.
- Replace torn or wrinkled snowflakes anytime—they’re easy to remake.
5. DIY Felt Gingerbread Garland
This felt gingerbread garland is one of my favorite crafts because it’s soft, safe, and toddler-friendly. My little boy loves choosing the “faces” and decorations for each gingerbread man — sometimes they look silly, and that’s what makes them extra cute. You don’t need sewing skills; felt is easy to cut and glue. When strung together, the gingerbread men make a charming garland for your wall, doorway, or mantle. It adds a playful, homemade touch to your Christmas décor that kids feel proud of.
Tips
- Use cookie cutters as templates for perfect gingerbread shapes.
- Pre-cut pieces for toddlers so they can focus on decorating.
- Use felt stickers or googly eyes for fun details.
- Choose thick felt so the garland hangs nicely.
- Glue the shapes onto a ribbon or twine using hot glue (adult only).
6. Candy Cane Bead Ornaments
These candy cane bead ornaments are perfect for preschoolers because they help with fine motor skills while being festive and fun. My 3-year-old loves threading the beads and bending the pipe cleaner into a candy cane shape. They’re wonderfully simple and require minimal cleanup, which is always a win for me. These ornaments look bright and cheerful on the tree, and your child will be proud every time they spot their handmade creation.
Tips
- Use larger beads for tiny hands to avoid frustration.
- Stick to red and white beads for a classic look.
- Bend the pipe cleaner’s end slightly so beads don’t fall off.
- Make mini versions to hang on small branches or wreaths.
- Store them in a small box so they last for next year.
7. Mason Jar Snow Globes
Mason jar snow globes feel like true Christmas magic. My son loves watching the glitter swirl around after we shake it, and it becomes a little sensory activity too. You can customize the scene inside with small figurines or bottlebrush trees. These snow globes make beautiful DIY décor for shelves or tables, and they’re surprisingly easy to assemble. They’re also budget-friendly and make great gifts for family members.
Tips
- Use plastic figurines that can handle water.
- Glue everything down firmly before adding liquid.
- Add a drop of glycerin to slow the glitter fall.
- Use plastic jars if you’re worried about breakage.
- Seal the lid with hot glue to prevent leaks.
8. Recycled Cardboard Christmas Village
A cardboard Christmas village is such a fun imagination-filled project. My little boy loves helping me color the houses, glue on windows, and add “snow” on the rooftops. It’s a great way to recycle old boxes while letting your child create something magical. You can make as many houses as you want, and each one can look different. It turns into a cute display that’s personal, sustainable, and perfect for creative kids.
Tips
- Use cereal boxes for easier cutting.
- Let your child color the houses before assembling.
- Add cotton balls for snowy roofs.
- Make different house shapes to add variety.
- Line them up on a shelf with fairy lights behind them.
9. Bottle Cap Snowman Ornaments
These tiny snowman ornaments are adorable and surprisingly easy. My son loves helping me paint the caps and glue them together. It’s a great way to reuse everyday items and turn them into something cute for the tree. Each snowman ends up with its own personality, and kids enjoy picking scarf colors and drawing little faces. They’re lightweight, budget-friendly, and perfect for beginner crafters.
Tips
- Use plastic bottle caps if you want them lighter.
- Paint with white acrylic for best coverage.
- Tie ribbon scraps for scarves.
- Glue caps in a vertical line for a snowman body.
- Add a loop of twine at the top for hanging.
10. DIY Christmas Countdown Calendar
My 3-year-old gets so excited counting down to Christmas, so making a DIY countdown calendar feels extra special. You can keep it simple with numbered envelopes, paper pockets, or little boxes with tiny surprises or activities inside. It becomes a part of your holiday routine and builds anticipation every day. It’s a great décor piece because it adds charm and brings structured excitement to your home.
Tips
- Add simple activities like “read a Christmas story.”
- Keep treats small and toddler-friendly.
- Use washi tape to secure the pockets to a board.
- Choose bright papers to make it festive.
- Place it at kid height so your child can check it daily.
11. Handmade Holiday Door Wreath
There’s something so welcoming about a handmade wreath hanging on your front door. My son loves helping me pick leaves, ribbons, or little ornaments for it. Using a foam or wire base, you can create a wreath that matches your home’s holiday style. It’s a fun bonding activity and makes your home feel instantly festive. The best part? You can easily customize it every year.
Tips
- Use a foam ring for an easy base.
- Wrap it with ribbon before adding décor.
- Hot glue only the pieces you want permanent.
- Add a bow for a classic touch.
- Use lightweight decorations so it hangs well.
12. Family Photo Memory Ornaments
These ornaments are one of the sweetest ways to decorate your tree. I love using my favorite photos of my son — each ornament becomes its own little memory capsule. You can frame them using cardboard, clear ornaments, or laminated cutouts. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the year’s moments and watch your child grow through your holiday décor.
Tips
- Print small photos to fit ornament sizes.
- Use cardboard backing for sturdiness.
- Add ribbon loops for hanging.
- Decorate the frame edges with glitter glue.
- Write the year on the back to track memories.
13. DIY Sock Snowmen
Sock snowmen are soft, cute, and perfect for little hands. My son loves squeezing the sock and helping pour rice or stuffing inside. They sit nicely on shelves and bring a playful, cozy vibe to your Christmas setup. This snowman craft requires no sewing, and you can use old socks you already have — making it very budget-friendly. Each snowman turns out unique, which adds to the charm.
Tips
- Use white socks for a classic snowman look.
- Tie the “head” and “body” with rubber bands.
- Add buttons or pom-poms for decoration.
- Use a baby sock as the snowman’s hat.
- Draw the face using a permanent marker.
14. Ribbon Scrap Christmas Trees
Ribbon scraps make adorable mini Christmas trees that look cute on shelves, tables, or even as ornaments. My son loves choosing the ribbon colors, and it’s a great way to use leftover materials. All you need is a stick or cinnamon stick for the trunk and lots of ribbon pieces tied around it. It’s simple, pretty, and mess-free — perfect for moms who want quick crafts.
Tips
- Use different ribbon textures for variety.
- Tie ribbons tightly to avoid sliding.
- Trim into a triangle shape once finished.
- Add a small star sticker at the top.
- Display several together for a fuller look.
15. Painted Pinecone Decorations
Painted pinecones instantly bring rustic Christmas charm to your home. My 3-year-old loves dabbing paint on the edges, and the result always turns out pretty — no perfect technique needed. You can paint them white for a snowy effect or use bright colors for a playful look. They look great in bowls, wreaths, or as ornaments. This craft is affordable and easy, especially if you collect pinecones from your yard.
Tips
- Bake pinecones first to remove bugs (low heat).
- Use metallic paint for a festive touch.
- Add glitter while the paint is wet.
- Tie twine around the top for hanging.
- Group them in a bowl for table décor.
Final Touches and Family Crafting Tips
- Keep a small “craft basket” ready with tape, glue, kid-safe scissors, and wipes so you’re not running around during craft time.
- Choose projects that match your child’s attention span — short, simple, and hands-on works best for toddlers.
- Set up a washable table cover or old towel to make cleanup quick and stress-free.
- Display your child’s creations proudly around the house to boost their confidence and excitement.
- Take photos of your DIY projects so you can look back on them year after year.
- Keep a “no-pressure” mindset — the goal is fun, not perfection.
- End craft time with a simple routine like washing hands together or cleaning up in a fun, playful way.
Conclusion
Creating DIY Christmas decorations with my 3-year-old has truly become one of my favorite parts of the holiday season. It’s messy, it’s funny, and it’s full of those little moments that turn into the memories we hold onto the longest.
These simple, kid-friendly projects remind me that Christmas magic isn’t about perfect décor — it’s about the joy we share while making them together. I hope these ideas bring the same warmth, connection, and excitement into your home.
So gather a few supplies, set up a cozy crafting spot, and let your little one’s creativity shine this festive season.
