Simple Block Nativity Craft for Kids

After reading a few picture books about nativity sets this past week, my kids wanted to make their own nativity sets for their bedrooms. Since they are welcome to play with our complete nativity set at any time, I thought that it would be easier for them to make a simple all-in-one nativity craft. The single block doesn't take up very much room, and it's something the kids can play with and display year after year. (Plus it's easier to store since it's only one piece as opposed to many.)

Our focus for this nativity craft is specifically on the Holy Family -- Joseph, Mary and baby Jesus. It's a fairly simple Christmas project that uses materials that are easily found around the home. (template inspired by this felt ornament from colophon design.)



All-in-one Nativity Block Craft



Materials:
Construction paper - various colors
Glue
Scissors
Scrap lumber (wood block)
Mod Podge (optional)

All-in-one Nativity Pattern [pdf] (may have to resize to fit your block shape)

1. Print out the pattern pdf, cut out the pieces and trace onto your choice of construction paper colors. (For a personalized craft, those more artistic may want to freehand the family shapes instead of using the pattern).


2. Glue the construction paper pieces to the block of wood, starting with Joseph's body and face, then Mary's and finally baby Jesus. Place and glue the star to top left-hand corner of the wood block.


3. (Optional) Using a sponge brush, apply Mod Podge over the entire top of the block to seal the block and collage work.

Here are our finished Holy Family blocks. I traced and cut out the construction pieces for my preschool-aged son. He glued them to his block himself (left). My first grader daughter freehanded all of her pieces and completed the project entirely on her own (right). It only took her about 15 minutes to make this craft. Both kids are very proud of their nativity blocks.



Later on in the day I noticed my daughter busily at work in her bedroom. She created a stable out of wooden building blocks and added a few other figures to complete her own personal nativity set! It's more special than anything we could ever buy!



A Mommy's Adventures hosts the "stART" meme (Story + Art) each week. Add your kids craft post to the Kid's Get Crafty linky at Red Ted Art's Blog. Join the It's Playtime party! Find more great book tie-ins at JDaniel4's Mom Read, Explore, Learn link-up.