Lovely childcare

[For 4-year-olds] Winter craft ideas to enjoy at daycare and kindergarten

20 years of experience as a nursery teacher / kindergarten teacherhiyoko sensei
I’m Hiyoko-sensei, a former nursery school teacher from Hyogo Prefecture. Ever since I was five, my dream was to become a childcare worker, and before I knew it, 20 years had passed since I achieved that dream. Through singing and playing with the children, I kept working with the spirit of someone in their twenties, even as I increasingly felt my physical limits year by year (haha). From here on, I’d like to share helpful information carefully and thoughtfully, drawing on my on-site experience.

Children who attend kindergarten and nursery school are likely looking forward to celebrating Christmas and winter events together with their friends and teachers.

In the chilly winter, some people may be looking for events that can be enjoyed not only outdoors but also indoors.

In this article, we’ve compiled a collection of recommended winter craft ideas for four-year-olds in childcare settings.

We’re also introducing activities that involve using their hands and thinking about what to make as they work, which can help nurture concentration and thinking skills through play.

Try making these items that are fun to create and fun to play with!

Because the children’s creations are treated as works, we refer to them as “seisaku” (制作, craft/creation) in the text.

[For 4-year-olds] Winter Craft Ideas Enjoyable at Daycare and Kindergarten (121–130)

Cup-and-ball toy made with paper cups

[Preschool Craft] Perfect for New Year’s Play! Easy Kendama with Paper Cups | Easy Kendama with Paper Cups

Cup-and-ball toy made with paper cups

As a winter craft idea that lets kids enjoy both play and learning, I recommend making a cup-and-ball toy (kendama) out of paper cups.

Using familiar materials like paper cups and kite string, this kendama is easy for 4-year-olds to enjoy.

Letting children draw freely on the cups also stimulates their expressive and creative abilities.

When they complete their very own kendama, they’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and attachment, making them even more engaged in play! It’s perfect for New Year’s holiday fun, so give it a try.

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Snowman photo frame

Making a snowman DIY picture frame winter theme!

Snowman photo frame

This is a cute photo frame with a snowman motif that conveys the fun of winter.

Use a paper plate to represent the snowman’s belly, then decorate it by adding parts like the face and hands.

Place the photo in the center of the belly, and it’s also recommended to cut the photo into a circle to match the overall round shape.

Another cute option is to cut out the middle of the paper plate and attach the photo to the back so it shows through the opening.

Enjoy decorating the snowman however you like, and you’ll have a photo frame that brings back happy winter memories!

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sock bag

Easy with construction paper♪ Let’s make a stocking bag for Christmas

sock bag

Socks that evoke presents from Santa are an essential item for creating a Christmas mood.

How about threading yarn through construction paper to make a warm, handmade sock bag? First, fold a sheet of red construction paper in half, with the fold as the closed edge, draw a sock shape, and cut it out.

Next, glue white construction paper to the top opening of the sock, and punch holes around the edge of the sock with a hole punch.

Finally, thread yarn or ribbon through the holes and tie larger knots at the beginning and end to make a handle.

After that, have fun decorating it with stickers and anything else you like!

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Christmas lantern

[Christmas Craft] Easy! How to Make a Christmas Lantern | Christmas craft decoration | Handmade | Elementary school kids | Children | Kindergarten | Easy | Light-up | Lamp

Christmas lantern

In the run-up to Christmas, making Christmas lanterns is a great activity for 4-year-olds to enjoy.

Start by cutting plastic sheets and drawing their favorite pictures.

Next, add color using colorful cellophane and try out different combinations.

Finally, assemble the sheet into a cone shape and place an LED light inside to complete a beautiful lantern! Through this craft, children can express their creativity and experience a sense of accomplishment.

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In conclusion

We’ve put together a collection of craft ideas to help kids enjoy the long-awaited winter even more.

Making and playing with family and friends can be a great way to deepen your bonds.

Some items involve several steps, so don’t forget that parents and teachers may need to assist.

From adorable, soothing creations to practical goods, try out these winter-themed craft ideas that bring the season to life.