GIFTS FROM THE HAND

Short on money forgifts?  Check out my Decemberwebsite for lots of projects your students can make for their parents.  Here are a few of my favorites:

Luggage Tag

Here’s apractical, simple, and easy gift even the youngest students can make.

You will need:  pipe cleaners, alphabet beads,decorative beads

Directions:  Let children select alphabet beads forthe name they wish to put on the luggage tag.  String alphabet beads along with decorative beads.  Twist the ends to make a circle thatcan be attached to a luggage handle.

Paper Bookmark

Anybody would bethrilled to get a handmade bookmark.

You will need:  wrapping paper scraps, constructionpaper, scissors, glue, self laminating sheets, yarn, beads

Directions:  Make bookmarks by cutting theconstruction paper into 2” x 8” rectangles.  Let children decorate with wrapping paper scraps andpersonal drawings or a photo of themselves.  Cut self-laminating sheets into 2” x 8” rectangles and sealto the bookmarks.  Punch a hole andattach a piece of yarn decorated with beads.

PersonalizedNote Cards

Parents orrelatives will be thrilled with these note cards.

You will need:  card stock, children’s drawings, blackcrayon or marker, ribbon or yarn

Directions:  Give children a 5 ½” x 4 ¼” piece ofpaper and ask them to draw a picture of themselves or their family.  Make two copies of their design andglue to the bottom of another sheet of paper as shown.  Run off 5 copies on cardstock.  Cut down the middle and fold in half tomake note cards.  Tie together withribbon or yarn.

Adaptations:  Add envelopes to go with the cards.

Hint!  Do a class design and give sets ofcards to school helpers and volunteers.


I GOT IT!  I caught a little Christmas spirit!  We heard the Charleston Gospel Chorus sing last night and it was AMAZING!  I think we become so immune to the sounds of the season because they are piped in every place you go.  A live performance stirs the heart and rekindles the magic of the season.  Shut your door and SING LOUD!