Eco-friendly winter crafts ideas for kids

As the nights draw in it’s a great time to get cosy and start some winter craft projects. Why not adventure into the outdoors to collect some materials and resources for your creations? Collect natural objects on your walks with the little ones and use these to create some special winter keepsakes - you might even spot some wildlife on the way! Eco-conscious crafts are a great way to connect with nature and entertain children, without breaking the bank.

What you will need:

1. Stick Tree

If you’re feeling super adventurous, you could make your own tree decoration out of big sticks and twigs. Find around 8 sticks in a variety of sizes from big to small. You will need to leave these to dry out a little in a warm place. Starting with your smallest stick, tie a piece of string to either end, joining the string in the middle with a knot to create a triangle shape. You can hang your stick tree from this point. Next, attach the next size of stick using string at each end of the stick. Carry on attaching each stick until you form a tree shape. You could decorate your stick tree with other natural objects found on your journey.

2. Reindeer Rocks

We’ve got a fun fact for you – reindeer are the only deer species where both males and females can grow antlers! Pick up some teeny tiny twigs and some little pebbles to make mini reindeer rocks. Carefully glue the little twigs to the top of your pebbles to make the reindeer’s antlers. Then, using some paint or pens, draw on your reindeer’s smiley face.

3. Jack Frost Nature Garden

Look out for different textures and colours along your winter walk to create a sensory experience. Gather the natural objects which catch your eye to create your very own nature crown. Cut out a strip of cardboard, long enough to fit the circumference of the child’s head. Then, stick down your array of outdoor materials. Once these have dried, use a stapler to fix your crown together. You could even create your own story around the royal heritage of the nature crown.

4. Nature gift wrap

Winter is a time of giving. Spruce up your carefully wrapped gifts with natural objects found along your outdoor adventures. Twigs, cuttings from pine trees and dried-out leaves are ideal for adding a touch of the outdoors to your gifts. Simply place your items in the middle of the gift and secure them with string or ribbon. A perfect activity to get the little helpers involved - why not try out some sustainable wrapping paper? We love to use old newspapers and fabric to wrap our gifts. Reuse and recycle things from around your home.

5. Pinecone ornament

Did you know that a pinecones main function is to keep pine tree seeds safe? Pinecones are everywhere at this time of year. Their beautiful scales make great festive ornaments. Tie or glue some string or ribbon to the top of the pinecone and hang them around your home. You may need to peg the string to the pinecone and leave the glue to dry overnight. You could even paint these or decorate them with some biodegradable glitter for some extra festive cheer.

If you’re looking for more ideas to keep the kids entertained over the holidays, take part in A Winter Wander with The Snowman™ and The Snowdog! The trail is open at Lepe Country Park, Royal Victoria Country Park and Queen Elizabeth Country Park. Trail packs cost £7 and include a 12-page activity guide and crayon, a voucher for a winter-warming babyccino and a special The Snowman™ and The Snowdog gift.

You can find out more about what’s going on across Hampshire Countryside this winter on our website, including some great winter walks.