In preschool I like to keep things simple! This way, my preschoolers can be proud of the creations they make whether in the kinetic sand or creating a project to keep forever, like our Candy Cane Ornaments!
What I like about these candy canes is that they are low prep on my end too. And if you’re anything like me, you have a fun supply of colorful washi tape and are ready to create!
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Candy Cane Ornaments
- cardstock
- washi tape – see fun options here!
- scissors
I drew candy cane outlines in the size that I wanted the ornaments to be on white cardstock. I’m working with 3 year-olds, so my candy canes may be bigger than what you would prefer. Make the size that works for you!
After the outline of the candy cane is on the white cardstock, add the colorful washi tape!
We used the red washi tape to go along with the traditional candy cane colors. To keep with the pattern (and practice patterning!), we added a piece of tape, left a space, added a piece of tape, left a space…all the way to the end!
When the candy cane is complete, cut the candy cane ornament out with scissors.
At preschool, the kids used precut candy canes. We go over our table activities during circle time first thing in the morning, so they worked pretty independently at this patterning ornament making activity. This is why the precut shapes worked for my classroom setting.
With older kids, or at home, I would cut after the tape is on for a neater ornament.
The candy cane ornament is finished!
Now decide how to display it. At home, we made candy cane garland. The candy canes have holes punched into the top with twine laced through the candy canes.
At preschool, the candy canes are on individual ribbons waiting to be hung on Christmas trees as ornaments!
The Candy Cane Ornaments are simple crafts that help strengthen fine motor skills. Each cut of the scissors, pull and stick of the tape pieces, and lacing of the ribbon, use muscles in your child’s fingers and hands that help develop handwriting muscles and motions too!
Ornaments that look great, take just minutes to prep, and are easy enough for a 3 year-old are perfect for the busy holiday season!
Find other Christmas ideas for preschoolers…and even older kiddos too!
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