Many kids delight in making gifts for their favorite grown-ups — whether it’s for a parent, grandparent, nanny, teacher, babysitter, coach or another cherished adult. Making something with their own hands not only encourages creativity in kids, but it also provides them an opportunity to show their appreciation for the special adults in their lives through the joy of giving.
Sure, scarves and scented candles are nice, but the best gifts are made by little hands — and always come from the heart. From imaginative presents to heartfelt keepsakes, here are 9 one-of-a-kind gifts kids can make themselves — perfect for holidays, birthdays, appreciation or any special occasion.
1. Washi tape wooden bracelets
You know you have a good DIY holiday gift on your hands when you kind of want one for yourself. Case in point: the Washi tape wooden bracelets from Mama Miss. So cute!
2. Button bookmarks
These simple and cute button bookmarks from I Heart Naptime are a fun spin on a classic gift. Have the kiddos make a few as a set or mix and match them up!
3. Hand-painted candleholder
How gorgeous are these hand-painted candleholders by Rhythms of Play? Kids will love channeling their inner Jackson Pollock when creating them — and adults will love the gorgeous, luminous result.
4. Calming lavender lotion bar
Looking for an impressive gift kids can make for their nanny or teacher? Look no further than these easy (only three ingredients!) calming lavender lotion bars from How Wee Learn. And don’t forget to set aside a few for yourself.
5. DIY clay bowls
For a truly beautiful and unique homemade holiday gift, look no further than these stunning DIY clay bowls from Frogs Snails and Puppy Dog Tails. Anyone on the receiving end is sure to be thrilled.
6. Hanging DIY mosaics
This DIY shell mosaic from Almost Makes Perfect is a cool artsy gift kids can make for any grown-up who enjoys the ocean or just loves seashells, rocks, gems, crystals or other pretty things. Another great idea? Turn a rock or shell collection from a special trip with a grandparent or other loved one into an artful gift. Sure, it can also be a holiday ornament, but it’s charming enough to hang up year-round.
7. DIY magnetic Scrabble
Need a fun gift kids can make for a teacher or board game lover? This DIY refrigerator scrabble game idea from Crafts by Amanda is a gift that just keeps on giving. And it’s so easy to make! Hunt down a few old Scrabble board games at local flea markets or thrift stores, and then glue some magnets on the back. So simple and a really fun gift!
8. Clay fingerprint necklaces
Making this clay fingerprint necklace (or double thumbprints make a heart!) from It’s Always Autumn does require using an oven, so some grown-up supervision is advised. But what a sweet keepsake for a child’s favorite person.
9. Infused olive oils
For an out-of-the-box — and delicious! — homemade gift, try whipping up these infused olive oils from Just Putzing Around the Kitchen. Not only are they thoughtful and tasty, but you and the kids will have fun making them together.
