Remind kids this is the season of giving, not getting, by using arts and crafts time for projects that make a difference to those in need.
Microwavable Heating Pads
Turn lonely socks or baby leg warmers into cute no-sew microwavable heating pads by filling them with rice and a few drops of soothing essential oils with this how-to from Unsophisticook. Then donate them to the elderly residents at a local assisted living facility.
Superhero Capes
To support the Capes for Kids program, you can design a no-sew superhero cape for a child living in a shelter to make him or her feel strong and powerful.
Handmade Cards
Create a handwritten letter or card for a newly diagnosed breast cancer patient as part of the Girls Love Mail program, which sends the notes to cancer centers.
Flat Teddy Bears
Make a flat teddy bear for The Hugs Project, which sends them to military members stationed overseas who hand them out to children in war-affected areas.
Pillowcase Dresses
Create a beautiful pillowcase dress for Sew Gorgeous to distribute to a little girl in a developing country.
Animal Blankets
Make a simple no-sew fleece blanket to calm newly sheltered animals and donate it to a participating shelter in the Snuggles Project.
Paracord Bracelets
Weave a paracord survival bracelet for Operation Gratitude to include in its care packages that are sent to troops deployed overseas.
Children's Blankets
Make a no-sew fleece blanket and donate it to your local chapter of Project Linus, which gives blankets to children in crisis through hospitals, shelters, and other agencies.
Traveling Pillowcases
Sew a simple traveling pillowcase for a child living in a shelter as part of Enchanted Makeovers' mission to transform the shelter experience for women and children.
Cooling Neck Ties
Make a cooling neck tie for a member of the military stationed in the Middle East to beat the desert heat as part of The Hugs Project.